Ruben Amorim post-match press conference | Manchester United 1-1 West Ham United

Ruben Amorim's Post-Match Press Conference After Manchester United 1-1 West Ham (December 4, 2025)

Ruben Amorim addressed the media following Manchester United's frustrating draw at Old Trafford against West Ham United. The match ended 1-1, with United dominating possession but struggling to convert chances, leading to a point that Amorim described as underwhelming given the circumstances. Below is a summary of his key comments, drawn from transcripts and reports of the presser.

On the Match Performance and Intensity
Amorim emphasized the team's inconsistency in maintaining high energy levels, noting that United cannot afford to drop their guard like more established sides can.
"We are not consistent with it... our team is NOT a team that can drop their intensity and maintain the same level. There are some teams that can drop their energy but still manage the game... we have to be in FULL POWER to be competitive."
He highlighted the second half against Crystal Palace (from the previous game) as a positive benchmark but admitted today's display lacked that "connection and intensity," especially in finishing.

On Team Selection and Honesty with Players
Responding to questions about squad rotations and whether he ever gets selections wrong, Amorim was candid about his decision-making process.
"OF COURSE... I get it wrong but I'm trying to be really careful before doing things. The players understand that I'm doing it for the RIGHT reasons."
"I'm honest with my players... sometimes they like it and sometimes not but I think they can RESPECT it. I just want to win... I LOVE all of my players."

On Set-Pieces and Tactical Adaptations
Building on United's recent success from dead balls (including two goals in the prior win over Palace), Amorim discussed "stealing" ideas from opponents.
"I take inspiration from everyone... We have more time to work, we work a lot [on set pieces] and we learn a lot in England."

He credited assistant coach Carlos Fernandes for directing routines from the touchline and noted how routines like Joshua Zirkzee's goal against Palace were adapted from other teams' plays.

On Player Updates and Squad Depth
Injuries: Matthijs de Ligt and Mason Mount were the "doubts" mentioned in his pre-match briefing; Mount made the bench, but de Ligt was absent.

Lisandro Martinez ("Licha") is "near" a return to full training, while Noussair Mazraoui remains uncertain.
Kobbie Mainoo: Amorim addressed speculation about the midfielder's role, stressing fairness in selection amid a packed December schedule and January transfer window considerations. He wants Mainoo to "fight" for his place but didn't confirm starts.
Joshua Zirkzee: Post-presser chat revealed Amorim pushing for more goals from the forward: "He wants more goals from Joshua Zirkzee."

On West Ham and Broader Challenges
Praised Nuno Espírito Santo's impact at West Ham: "I had no doubt that he would have success... he is really experienced."

On social media and external noise: Amorim urged focus, saying the squad's "closeness" is key for young players like Leny Yoro to handle pressure.

Overall, Amorim's tone was reflective and pragmatic, acknowledging United's "weaknesses" but insisting on progress through hard work. He views the draw as a missed opportunity but one that underscores the need for relentless intensity.