Ruben Amorim says winning Europa League would be massive for Manchester United

United eye Champions League return as Amorim highlights importance of European glory.

Head coach Ruben Amorim of Manchester United speaks at a press conference ahead of the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 quarter-final first leg match at Groupama Stadium on April 9, 2025, in Lyon, France. Photo by Ash Donelon/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Ruben Amorim says winning Europa League would be massive for Manchester United, as the manager looks to steady a ship that has been drifting in the wrong direction all season. As the Red Devils prepare to face Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final, Amorim is under no illusions about what is at stake — not just in terms of silverware, but for the club’s financial and competitive future.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Amorim was frank about the significance of lifting the Europa League trophy, calling it “massive” on multiple fronts. “The first one is to win a title, especially a European title,” he said. “In this season, in this context, winning something like that is massive for us, for our confidence and then to the future.”

United are heading towards what could be their worst league finish since 1990. Their domestic form has been inconsistent at best, and with Champions League qualification via the Premier League looking increasingly unlikely, the Europa League has become not only their last hope for silverware but also a financial lifeline.

Failure to qualify for the Champions League is expected to cost the club upwards of £100 million — a staggering sum that puts pressure on Amorim, his squad, and the entire footballing operation behind the scenes.

The weight of expectations at Old Trafford

For a club of Manchester United’s stature, anything short of Champions League football is seen as failure. But in recent seasons, the team has struggled to find consistent form, suffering from managerial instability, injuries, and recruitment missteps. Amorim’s appointment was seen as a bold move — bringing in a young coach with new ideas — and though progress has been slow, his vision for the team is becoming clearer.

Under Amorim, United have looked more organized in Europe. After a shaky start in the group phase with three consecutive draws, the Red Devils have won six of their last seven Europa League matches. That run of form has instilled hope among fans and players alike, offering a glimmer of redemption in what has been a difficult campaign.

“This competition is everything right now,” Amorim admitted. “For next season, to play Champions League in our club is completely different — the environment, the way we are going to face the summer, the budget for the summer — everything is connected with this competition and we know that pressure.”

Kobbie Mainoo returns at the right time

Another piece of good news for United ahead of Thursday’s clash in Lyon is the return of promising midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The 19-year-old has been sidelined for two months due to a muscular injury but is now back in the squad. Amorim, however, has stressed the need to manage the youngster carefully.

“He had some games out, so we have to be careful with his fitness,” the manager said. “We are really happy to have more options and an option like Kobbie Mainoo, with the quality that he has.”

Mainoo’s versatility and maturity beyond his years have impressed both coaching staff and fans this season. He can slot into multiple midfield roles and could prove vital in high-pressure knockout fixtures. But Amorim made it clear that the club won’t rush him back too quickly. “We need him fit and ready, not just for this tie, but for the rest of the season.”

A must-win clash with Lyon

United’s quarter-final matchup with Lyon will be no easy task. Though the French side have struggled in Ligue 1 this season, they remain dangerous in Europe, with a squad that includes experienced campaigners and a loyal home crowd. The tie will be decided over two legs, with the return fixture set for Old Trafford next week.

Amorim is treating this match as a final. “Every game is a final now,” he said. “We are in knockout football. There is no room for mistakes. We have to bring the intensity, the quality, and the belief.”

The Portuguese manager has instilled a more disciplined structure since taking charge, and it has paid off in the Europa League. His focus now is on maintaining that edge in the most crucial period of the season.

Champions League qualification: More than just prestige

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Manchester United. Beyond the sporting glory, there’s a harsh financial reality looming. Missing out on Champions League football next season would mean a major hit to revenue. For a club that’s already operating on a tight budget due to Financial Fair Play regulations, that loss could force tough decisions in the summer.

“We are already working with limitations,” said a senior club source. “Not getting into the Champions League would make it worse — fewer transfer targets, reduced wages for incoming players, and possibly needing to sell.”

That’s why Amorim’s comments on Wednesday carry such weight. Winning the Europa League isn’t just about a trophy — it’s about keeping the project alive.

Fans rally behind Amorim’s leadership

Despite a turbulent domestic season, many Manchester United fans have found reasons to support Amorim’s approach. His transparency, tactical awareness, and willingness to give youth a chance have resonated with supporters who are hungry for both results and a long-term vision.

Thursday’s match in Lyon is being treated by many fans as a turning point. A strong performance and result could set the tone for the final stretch of the season. And with Old Trafford set to host the second leg, there’s belief that United can push through to the semi-finals — and beyond.

Everything to play for

As Ruben Amorim says winning Europa League would be massive for Manchester United, the message is loud and clear: the next few weeks could define the future of the club. From financial stability to squad morale, and from transfer strategy to fan trust, everything hinges on European success.

Amorim knows that his side must take things one game at a time, but the goal is simple — win the Europa League and return Manchester United to where they believe they belong: at the top table of European football.

Now, all eyes are on Lyon. The journey continues, and for Manchester United, it could be the most important one in years.