By Martin Graham
Ruben Amorim offered a pointed reflection after Manchester United’s thrilling 5-4 comeback against Lyon, highlighting the precarious nature of his early tenure. Speaking nearly an hour after full-time, in a quiet press room at Old Trafford, the Portuguese manager took a moment to evaluate what the emotional win meant in the broader context of their season.
“These moments help us,” Amorim said. “They create bonds with supporters and give us something positive to hold onto, even briefly. But from tomorrow, it all begins again.”
Despite the euphoria of such a result – coming back from 4-2 down with only minutes left in stoppage time – the focus quickly shifts. United returns to domestic action with a game against Wolves on the horizon, and preparations begin on Friday. Wolves boss Vitor Pereira, who attended the match but reportedly left before the wild finale, may benefit from the emotional and physical toll the game took on Amorim’s squad.
United’s coach acknowledged that some of his regulars could be rested. He admitted that preserving player fitness has become necessary, saying, “We have to gamble and protect players. The Europa League is now our biggest target.”
The stakes couldn’t be higher
Manchester United’s hopes for a successful campaign now rest on their performances in Europe. Their path to the Champions League – and the accompanying financial boost – relies entirely on overcoming Athletic Bilbao in the semifinals and then possibly Bodo/Glimt or Tottenham in the final.
Meanwhile, league form continues to suffer. Sitting in 14th place, United risk further drops in the table, which could cost them significant prize money. Each position in the Premier League is worth roughly £3 million, raising the stakes even more as the club balances two competitions.
Amorim must now make difficult decisions in the upcoming fixtures against Wolves, Bournemouth, and Brentford. With top players likely to be managed carefully, domestic results may take a hit, adding to the tension around the club’s choices.
Still, the remarkable Lyon comeback did offer one clear positive: the team’s spirit. The players showed grit, determination, and belief – qualities long associated with United’s history. They refused to surrender, even when defeat seemed inevitable.
Flaws threaten progress
Despite the passion and fight on display, the team continues to show serious weaknesses. Defensive lapses remain common, with poor goals conceded in quick succession. Finishing has also been an issue – chances missed by Alejandro Garnacho and Patrick Dorgu at 2-0 nearly cost them dearly.
Such shortcomings could derail progress at any point. This inconsistency means that no lead ever feels secure and no match is ever truly under control.
Tactically, the approach also raised eyebrows. Amorim, who has worked hard to instill a system, ultimately turned to a more direct strategy in desperation – putting Harry Maguire forward as a makeshift striker. The move worked, as Maguire scored a goal that will live long in the memory.
Afterwards, Amorim played down the adjustment: “In moments like these, Harry becomes a forward. Inside the box, he’s no longer a defender – he knows how to act there.”
As the season heads into its final stretch, the uncertainty grows. Whether it ends in triumph or in disappointment, there is no safe middle ground for this United team.
It wasn’t meant to unfold this way – but this is where they find themselves.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
