🔗 Share this article

United's manager Amorim thinks it is important the investor went public with his extended perspective - but states nothing is guaranteed about the next day in soccer, much less three full years.

In an interview with a leading newspaper recently, Ratcliffe said it could take the head coach three seasons to make a significant impact at the Theatre of Dreams.

Arriving during a time when the manager's position has been under scrutiny after a prolonged run of poor performances, the comments helped quell a portion of the current stress.

But, speaking before the hundredth encounter with historic adversaries the Merseyside club at the famous stadium, Amorim underscored that the future is hard to predict in football.

"It's certainly beneficial to listen to that but he tells me all the time, sometimes with a message following matches - but understand, I'm aware and Ratcliffe understands, that soccer doesn't work that way," he stated.

"The most important thing is the following fixture. Regardless of investors, you cannot dictate the future in the sport."

CEO the club executive has acknowledged it has needed far longer for the manager to adapt to the English top flight after his transfer from Sporting Lisbon last November than anybody anticipated.

United have won 10 victories in 34 Premier League matches under the 40-year-old. They still haven't achieved two league games in a row and haven't finished a round of league games this season above ninth position.

The dire statistics are challenging confidence in Amorim among the Old Trafford faithful entering a run of games their team has struggled during for the previous two campaigns.

United's boss commented he isn't experiencing the doubt inside the club at the team's practice complex and is insistent nothing compares to the pressure he places on his players - and to some extent, he would prefer the co-owner to refrain from seeking to bring a sense of calm because he fears the influence it may create on the squad.

"It isn't merely something people discuss, I feel it daily," he stated. "It's truly positive to hear it because it benefits our followers to understand the administration realize it needs a period.

"However simultaneously, I dislike it because it gives a feeling that we own time to resolve issues. I don't want that impression in our club.

"The expectation I place on the players or on myself is significantly greater [compared to external sources]. In soccer, especially in big clubs, you need to prove your worth every weekend."

Connected themes

• Manchester United
• Premier League
• The beautiful game