Manchester United’s director of football Jason Wilcox has delivered a rallying call to the squad following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal on Monday, establishing Champions League qualification as the primary objective for the remainder of the campaign.
The Red Devils currently occupy joint sixth place in the Premier League with 32 points, and fifth place is expected to secure a place in Europe’s elite competition.
A source said: “Wilcox has spoken with the players in the wake of Amorim’s departure.
“He’s explained that the season has had some disappointments so far, but urged the players to come together and try and sustain some good form in the second half of the season.”
They told the Sun: “Qualifying for the Champions League is the target and it’s attainable. That was the message.”
The first-team squad had reportedly anticipated Amorim’s exit for some time, with many believing his fate was sealed after the dramatic 4-4 draw against Bournemouth on December 15.
A source told the publication: “Amorim seemed to be affected by that result and the atmosphere changed on the training ground. He had a different outlook which some of the players noticed. It felt like the beginning of the end.”
The Portuguese coach’s 14-month tenure ultimately ended following what appeared to be a fractured relationship with Wilcox.
Manchester United’s director of football Jason Wilcox has delivered a rallying call to the squad following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal on Monday
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PA
Reports suggest the director of football likened his own position to that of a manager, which reportedly angered Amorim and contributed to his unusual outburst after the Leeds draw.
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo endured a difficult period under the departed manager, finding himself marginalised for much of the campaign.
A source said: “Kobbie was frustrated under Amorim because he felt like he broke into the first team and gained a lot of success playing one way.
“Then suddenly Amorim started telling him he needed to play in a completely different way, which wasn’t to his strengths.”
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The England international had considered a loan move away from Old Trafford but now wishes to hold discussions regarding his long-term prospects at the club.
Contract negotiations between Mainoo, who earns approximately £25,000 weekly, and United stalled at an early stage, with both parties yet to reach an agreement.
The midfielder is seeking clarity from club officials about his role within the squad moving forward.
Concerns are mounting among United players that captain Bruno Fernandes may depart Old Trafford this summer, having grown weary of the club’s ongoing instability.
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A source said: “Amorim leaving definitely increases the chances of Kobbie staying at United. But it’s not a given.
“He wants assurances from officials about how they see him fitting into the squad and the first team.”
Darren Fletcher has taken on caretaker responsibilities at Old Trafford while the club pursues a permanent solution, with discussions currently underway with former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about a potential second interim spell in charge.
United face Brighton in the FA Cup third round before hosting Manchester City in the league next weekend.
