Ruben Amorim has expressed sympathy for Ange Postecoglou as both managers prepare for a high-stakes Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham on May 21.
Despite sitting 15th and 16th in the Premier League table respectively, United and Spurs have battled their way to the final in Bilbao—Amorim’s side edging out Athletic Club, while Tottenham overcame Bodo/Glimt.
Speaking after United’s semi-final win, Amorim acknowledged the shared pressure both he and Postecoglou are under.
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“Every game has its history. We lost the last three games, but we can win this one,” he said. “Both teams will approach the final like it’s all or nothing. The position of the coach is quite similar. Ange and I—we’re both struggling.”
He added, “I don’t know what’s going to happen, and that’s the good and bad thing about this team. But I think we’re improving.”
Meanwhile, Postecoglou took aim at critics who have questioned the legitimacy of Spurs’ European run, particularly with Champions League qualification at stake for the winner.
“There’s a lot of noise about whether we deserve it,” Postecoglou said. “If getting to a European final is so easy, why don’t all the top-three teams do it? League form doesn’t take away from what we’ve achieved.”
Former Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger, now with FIFA, had previously criticized UEFA’s rule allowing the Europa League winner a Champions League spot regardless of domestic standing. Postecoglou dismissed the debate.
“I couldn’t care less who’s struggling. We’ve earned our place in the final—and that’s what matters.”
