Although Manchester United finished 15th last season, midfielder Manuel Ugarte says the players still have faith in Portuguese coach Rúben Amorim.
Despite a difficult first season in charge at Old Trafford, Amorim continues to have the support of his squad. Ugarte, who played under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, told the media that Amorim is the right man for United.
Taking over in November last year, Amorim managed only seven wins from 27 Premier League matches. United ended the season in their worst-ever Premier League position, 15th, while also missing out on Champions League qualification after losing 1-0 to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Ugarte said, “We need to improve. We are all very motivated because we trust the coach; what he wants, we believe in, and that’s very important.”
He added, “Last year we made some changes, changed the coach and the formation. Playing for United means taking responsibility. Sometimes it takes time to build understanding within the team. I already know this league and the opponents well, which is important.”
United will play two preseason matches in the US — against Bournemouth on Wednesday in Chicago and Everton on Sunday in Atlanta — before facing Fiorentina at Old Trafford on August 9.
Their new Premier League season kicks off on August 17 against Arsenal.
