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14 hours ago
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Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has made it clear that his squad aims to make the most out of a disappointing season.
With their current rank being 15th in the Premier League table, Amorim has established that United are focusing on winning the Europa League to ensure a Champions League qualification next season.
Man United are set to face Athletic Club in the second leg of the Europa League on May 8. As the Red Devils prepare for their only shot at success this season, FIFA's chief of global football development, Arsene Wenger, believes (comments via The Mirror) claiming this title should not ensure Champions League qualification for the next campaign.
"They [Europa League winners] should qualify automatically for the Europa League again but not necessarily for the Champions League. Especially when you're in the Premier League where already five teams qualify. I think it's something (for Uefa) to think about and to review," said the former Arsenal boss.
"On the other hand people will tell you that to keep the Europa League focused, interesting and motivated you need to give them that prize (of qualifying for the Champions League)," he added.
Wenger's comments were perceived by many as a dig at Man United, who have been performing well in the Europa League in comparison to their displays in the Premier League.
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Now, Amorim has shared his opinion on Wenger's comments, mentioning that United are just playing by the rules.
What did Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim say?
During his pre-match conference ahead of United's Europa League clash against Athletic Club, Amorim was asked to share his thoughts on Wenger's comments. The Portuguese manager claimed that he and his squad are following the rules that have already been set.
Amorim also mentioned (comments via Manchester Evening News) that while he knows the Champions League includes the current top-performing clubs but since the rules allow a chance of qualification, Man United will 'go for it.'
"I just know the rules. If people want to change the rules by all means but these are the rules, if you win Europa League you go to Champions League, so we follow the rules," he said.
"I know the Champions League should be for teams who are champions or the best teams in the league but they find this way of promoting the competition so we just follow the rules and manage the end of the season with that. We cannot go by the Premier League, so we follow the rules and go for it for the Europa League," concluded Amorim.
Man United are hosting Athletic Club in the second leg of the Champions League semifinal at Old Trafford. Along with the home advantage, the Red Devils also have a 3-0 lead from the first leg at San Mamés last week.
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