Manchester United’s domestic season is in freefall, but with a European trophy still in sight, manager Ruben Amorim has hinted at a bold and risky gamble to prioritise the Europa League and let the Premier League chips fall where they may.
With just 38 points from 32 games, United are on course for their lowest ever Premier League finish. They sit 14th, officially unable to match their previous worst tally of 58 points, and dangerously close to breaking their own record for the most league defeats in a single season.
Already at 14 losses, one more would make this the most beaten United side in Premier League history.
Despite the domestic disaster, United pulled off a stunning Europa League comeback against Lyon on Thursday night, with a 5-4 extra-time win that sealed their place in the semi-finals.
Amorim’s side showed resilience and belief, coming from behind with dramatic late goals from Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire.
That competition, Amorim made clear, is now the club’s top priority.
Speaking after the win, the Portuguese boss admitted the focus has shifted entirely to Europe, suggesting fringe players and squad rotation will likely take over in the final Premier League matches.
It’s a calculated move, but one that could lead United deeper into unwanted history.
“We know where our opportunity lies,” Amorim reportedly said. “The Europa League is now our priority. We will prepare properly and make sure we’re physically right for the semi-final. The players have given everything. We need to be smart from here.”
It’s a decision that speaks volumes. United are prepared to let go of their league form in exchange for a single shot at glory and more crucially, a ticket back into the Champions League. It’s a high-stakes bet, but with six games left and nothing left to salvage domestically, it may be the only play left.
United will face Athletic Bilbao in the last four, while the other semi-final sees Tottenham go up against Norwegian outfit Bodø/Glimt.
On paper, United have every reason to believe they can win it all. But with Amorim now managing his squad for Europe, the Premier League could get even uglier before it’s all over.
As they prepare to host Wolves this weekend, there’s an eerie quiet around Old Trafford. The league table doesn’t lie, this is Manchester United at their lowest. But in the wreckage, they’ve found one last escape route. All that’s left is to see whether they can take it.
