The team heads to Old Trafford on Saturday night, aiming to recover from their recent setback in Europe.Continue Reading
Chelsea faced Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, where a Trevoh Chalobah own goal and two strikes from Harry Kane secured a 3-1 win for the German side. Cole Palmer scored Chelsea’s only goal.
While Chelsea were busy with midweek competition, United’s absence from European tournaments this season has given Ruben Amorim’s squad more time to rest and prepare for the match.
This could be seen as a potential edge heading into the weekend.
During his press conference, Maresca commented on the situation. “If you ask me, I prefer to play the Champions League game, no doubt,” he said.
“But at the same time, the reality is that they have one entire week to prepare the game. And we played a game two days ago, 48 hours ago. But again, I prefer to play the Champions League games.”
Someone who likely shares Maresca’s view on competing in Europe is United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
According to TalkSPORT, Ratcliffe emphasized the need for better performances during a recent meeting with Amorim.
Reports suggest he believes the current roster is capable of securing a top-five finish this season.
United’s leadership considers a return to European football next season a priority, though qualifying for the Champions League isn’t necessarily the main goal—despite Ratcliffe’s desire to see the club back among the continent’s best.
Securing any European spot is seen as the minimum requirement for Amorim, and failure to do so could have serious consequences.
Missing out on European competition this year has financial implications for United. After significant spending in the transfer market, expectations are high for a comeback next season.
The team is currently positioned 14th in the league standings. A 3-0 defeat to Manchester City last weekend has increased pressure on Amorim.
In his press conference, Amorim shared details of his conversation with Ratcliffe. “New contract, he was offering me a new contract,” he said with a smile.
“No, it’s normal things, just to show the support, explaining that it’s a long project. He said many times, ‘This is my third season.’ For me, it’s not. But normal things.
“I spoke with him, with [CEO] Omar [Berrrada], with [director of football] Jason [Wilcox], just trying to see all the data around the team. So, a normal meeting, and we had several, but in this moment, it’s normal that people pay attention to that.”
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