A ‘really difficult’ result during a ‘very difficult’ period, says Amorim

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim said his players lacked “understanding” of game management after Bournemouth won 3-0 at Old Trafford for the second season in a row on Sunday.

Dean Huijsen’s 30th-minute header, Justin Kluivert’s penalty after 61 minutes and Antoine Semeny’s strike two minutes later ensured United stayed 13th, eight points off fourth place.

“After the penalty and the (quick) third goal, it was really difficult for the players and the fans,” Amorim said after United suffered a second consecutive home defeat, via BBC Sport.

“This is a very difficult moment, but we already knew it was a difficult context. Our focus is to keep calm when (you concede) a goal.

“We have to manage these moments and try to convey some calmness to the players, understanding that the game has different moments.”

🗣️ “It’s hard to push two or three wins. We’re trying. But this match was difficult for us”

Ruben Amorim reflects on Man Utd’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth 🔴 pic.twitter.com/ytBCa38Y7l

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024

Amorim: United ‘ready for the challenge’

Huijsen’s first goal highlighted United’s fragility from set pieces as the Cherries finished fifth above Aston Villa and Manchester City.

Bruno Fernandes had a shot wide of goal that was saved by visiting goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga before half-time as Amorim tasted defeat for the fourth time in his nine-game tenure.

“We conceded one foul, one set and (conceived),” said the Portuguese, who arrived from Sporting on November 1.

“Then we had a lot of chances – even though we didn’t play very, very well, we won other balls, created chances and came close to the goal. We have one way to improve: train. We are ready to face the challenge.”

+3 😉 pic.twitter.com/XYWGCGsC5c

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) December 22, 2024

Marcus Rashford’s return uncertain

Amorim was noncommittal about Marcus Rashford’s inclusion when United visit Wolves in their next game on December 26 (17:30 GMT).

Former England striker Rashford is under contract until 2028 but has been left out of United’s last three matchday squads.

United have lost four of their last five home games as they prepare to host Newcastle on December 30 (8pm) before visiting current leaders Liverpool on January 5 (4.30pm).