Amorim fires back at Rooney’s ‘naive’ comment after FA Cup defeat

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has hit back at club legend Wayne Rooney, who criticized his ambitions of winning the Premier League, calling the remark “naive.”

Speaking after United’s FA Cup exit to Fulham, Amorim reaffirmed his goal of making the club title contenders again but dismissed Rooney’s criticism, saying:

“Being naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season.

“I know that in this moment everybody knows everything. I know that and it’s really easy—I was a pundit when I finished my career. I know it’s really easy.”

Rooney, working as a BBC pundit, had questioned Amorim’s vision, suggesting he was unrealistic given United’s struggles.

However, the Portuguese coach defended his stance, insisting that returning United to the summit of English football remains the club’s long-term mission.

“Our goal is to win the Premier League. Maybe it is not with me. But our goal, as a club, the board, is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great glories and legends of this club.”

United’s 1-1 draw with Fulham at Old Trafford saw them crash out on penalties after goals from Calvin Bassey and Bruno Fernandes.

Goalkeeper Bernd Leno saved crucial spot-kicks from Victor Lindelöf and Joshua Zirkzee, sealing Fulham’s victory at Old Trafford.

With domestic cup hopes dashed, United must now win the Europa League to salvage their season, starting with their last-16 first leg against Real Sociedad in Spain on Thursday.