Amorim says United have bigger problems than rivals Manchester City this season

Ruben Amorim says Manchester United have a “bigger problem” than their city rivals this season ahead of this weekend’s Manchester derby.

United make the short trip across town to the Etihad on Sunday to face a Manchester City side who have won just one game in their last ten in all competitions.

The Red Devils will look to bounce back in the Premier League after last weekend’s defeat at Old Trafford by Nottingham Forest.

Amorim’s team beat Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday, thanks to two goals from Rasmus Hojlund in the second half.

IT’S DERBY DAY 🔵⚔️🔴#MUFC || #MCIMUN

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 15, 2024

But despite City’s poor results of late, Amorim believes Pep Guardiola’s side still pose a threat and admits United’s problems are greater than those of their neighbours.

“They (City) are a very strong team with many years of working together,” Amorim told Sky Sports.

“They won a lot, but also lost a lot. But they are so good at what they do. They can change this momentum anytime.

“We have a bigger problem because we are working on simple things, but we want to win like Manchester City.

“It’s a game where both teams are not having their best moment of the season, but it’s always a derby and we want to win it.”

Ahead of the game, the United boss also said he can’t wait to see how his players respond to the challenge.

Amorim said: “We have so much to do. Not only in the game, but also in everything else.

“The way we play. I’m excited to see the behavior of our players in this situation and this kind of game.”

It’s Manchester derby day! 🍿👀

Who do you support? 👇 pic.twitter.com/jCcMrl3Cgx

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 15, 2024

This game will also mark Amorim’s first full month in charge of United. So far, under the leadership of the Portuguese coach, the team has played six games, winning three.

And Amorim reiterated the need for patience as the team adjusts to his methods.

“This should be like preseason, where I get to know my players, but we do that in competition,” Amorim added.

“You always have surprises. You have an idea of ​​a player and you have a surprise or two in good and bad ways.

“I already know that it is a big job, it will take time. Forget me as a coach, the club needs time. This is an important thing that everyone must understand and we must focus on every detail. Not only the result, we want to win, but we have to improve a lot.”