Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has questioned why he appears to be under less pressure than Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou, despite both clubs enduring similarly poor Premier League seasons.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Europa League final in Bilbao, Amorim said it was “hard to explain” the differing levels of criticism.
Reports suggest Postecoglou could be sacked even if Spurs win the final, ending their 17-year trophy drought, while Amorim is expected to stay on at United, regardless of the result.
United and Spurs sit 16th and 17th in the Premier League respectively, with both clubs confirmed to have had disastrous domestic campaigns.
United are guaranteed their worst league finish ever.
“I don’t know why,” Amorim said when asked about the difference in pressure. “I think people at the club understand what I’m trying to do.
“I’ve been honest with the board from day one about the problems we’d face, and I haven’t changed my approach. That transparency might be why they support me.”
Since taking over in mid-November, Amorim has won just six league matches, but he has guided United to their ninth European final, which may be a factor in the board’s continued backing.
He added, “I told them we were heading into a storm. I warned them about the difficulties. I think the board respects that I stuck to what I said when I took the job.”
Sitting beside Amorim, club captain Bruno Fernandes jokingly interrupted the discussion by saying, “Who told you he’s not under pressure? He is!”
This prompted laughter from Amorim, who replied: “He’ll be a very good coach one day, he just needs to work on his mindset.”
While both clubs fight for silverware, it appears only one manager’s job is truly on the line.
