“Very tough” result during a “very difficult” period, says Amorim

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

Dean Huijsen’s 30th-minute header, Justin Kluivert’s 61st-minute penalty and Antoine Semenyo’s goal two minutes later ensured United remained 13th, eight points off fourth.

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

“It is a very difficult moment, but we already knew it was a difficult context. Our goal is to stay calm when you (let in) a target.

“We have to manage these moments and try to give the players a bit of calm, understanding that the game has different moments.”

🗣️ “It is difficult to push for two or three victories. We are trying. But this game was tough for us”

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

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

Amorim: United “ready for the challenge”

Huijsen’s opener underlined United’s frailty from set pieces as the Cherries finished fifth above Aston Villa and Manchester City.

Bruno Fernandes sent a shot wide and was denied by visiting goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga before the break as Amorim tasted defeat for the fourth time in their nine games.

“We conceded a free-kick, a set-piece and (a tackle),” said the Portuguese, who arrived from Sporting on November 1.

“Then we had a lot of chances: without playing very, very well, we were winning second balls, creating chances and getting close to the goal. We have a way to improve: training. We are ready to face the challenge.”

+3 😉 pic.twitter.com/XYWGCGsC5c

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

Marcus Rashford returns uncertain

Amorim did not commit to Marcus Rashford’s involvement 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 call-ups.

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