Rúben Amorim has explained his one major demand from his Manchester United squad as Lyon travel to Old Trafford for the Europa League quarter-final second leg.
After their 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United on Sunday, Rúben Amorim is now turning his attention to a crucial Europa League night at Old Trafford.
Manchester United host Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday in the second leg of their quarter-final tie, with the score finely balanced at 2-2 after a thrilling first leg in France.
Thiago Almada put Lyon ahead early on, but United responded through Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee to turn the game around. However, a 95th-minute equaliser from Rayan Cherki ensured the sides would head to Manchester all square.
With the return leg in front of their home fans, United will be looking to take control and book their place in the semi-finals, where they would face either Athletic Bilbao or Rangers.
That tie remains level after a 0-0 draw in Glasgow, where Rangers showed resilience to hold on despite being reduced to ten men after Robin Pröpper was sent off just 13 minutes into the match.
Amorim’s major demand
The 4-1 loss to Newcastle was the club’s 14th loss of the Premier League season and 16th across all competitions.
United have remained unbeaten throughout the Europa League this campaign – the only team to do so across the Europa League and Champions League this season.
Speaking to club media ahead of the game, Amorim explained that he had one major wish from his squad, that they bounce back following the recent league defeat as they have done many times under his leadership so far.
“I truly believe that we can win the game and go to the next stage,” Amorim explained.
“We know that is a difficult match in the difficult moment of the season, but we are used to bouncing back sometimes in the difficult moments.
“We know that we are going to face a strong team with a strong coach, but we are ready to face and to go to the next stage.”
United’s season must continue after Lyon
It is not hyperbole to claim that, should United lose the second leg tie against Lyon, their season would be over. Harry Maguire has already admitted that the Europa League is the only competition the club are still competing in.
Should United progress past Lyon and go on to win the trophy, it would represent a significant breakthrough for Amorim.
The club would guarantee around £100 million in revenue should they win and gain entry into next season’s Champions League, which would be major for their summer window.
They would have much more cash to spend on improving the squad, as well as become a much more attractive destination for summer targets.
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