Ruben Amorim has expressed confidence that Manchester United will return to the summit of English football much sooner than the 10 or 11 years Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested it might take.
United have not lifted the Premier League trophy since Ferguson’s final season in charge in 2013, leaving the club stuck on 20 league titles. Speaking recently to Press Box PR, the legendary former manager said the club were “now in the same situation” as Liverpool during their long title drought, adding that it “could be 10 years, 11 years” before the league title returns to Old Trafford.
Amorim, however, believes the wait will be shorter. Addressing reporters on Friday, the Portuguese coach acknowledged Ferguson’s authority but made his own position clear. “He understands football more than me, especially English football,” Amorim said. “I think we are not (going to take that) long to win a league. And I don’t know which manager is going to be here. But I truly believe that we can fight for the title in the next (few) years. And I think it’s not going to take so many years.”
United currently sit sixth in the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s clash with third-placed Aston Villa, having endured an up-and-down campaign.
Amorim was also asked about comments made by club captain Bruno Fernandes to Portuguese media, where the midfielder revealed that United had wanted to sell him during the summer transfer window. Fernandes said Amorim’s assurances convinced him to remain at the club, although he admitted feeling hurt by the club’s stance.
Responding to the issue, Amorim said Fernandes had simply spoken honestly. “Of course, we can avoid these things because we already know the noise, but he talked with the board and I think everything is clear,” he said.
Fernandes also hinted that not everyone defends the club with the same passion he does, a claim Amorim declined to judge. “I don’t know if it’s fair,” he said. “He just spoke about his feelings. He needs to answer to that, it’s not me. I think he’s an example that he gives everything. He puts everything on the line in every training session and every match. In that department, he’s special.”
What you should know
Ruben Amorim’s comments reflect growing optimism within Manchester United despite their prolonged title drought since 2013.
While Sir Alex Ferguson has warned that the club’s rebuild could mirror Liverpool’s decades-long wait for success, Amorim believes United can realistically challenge for the Premier League within a few seasons. His remarks also underline his trust in Bruno Fernandes as a leader and key figure, even amid revelations that the club hierarchy considered selling the midfielder.
The episode highlights ongoing tension between long-term rebuilding, short-term expectations, and internal decision-making at one of football’s biggest clubs.
