Manchester United’s head coach Ruben Amorim is personally funding the trip for several staff members and their families to attend the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, as reported by multiple sources.
Following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s implementation of rigorous financial measures, the team’s co-owner has purportedly discontinued the practice of providing free tickets for the club’s personnel. Instead, staff members have been invited to a watch party in Manchester, where they will receive two drink vouchers.
However, it now appears that Amorim has taken it upon himself to reward the work of his backroom team.
The Athletic and ESPN have indicated that Amorim is financing travel and lodging for two guests each for 30 staff members, including coaches, physiotherapists, and other lower-paid support personnel. First-team players are already gifted with two complimentary tickets for their family and friends.
If these guests are in Bilbao to witness United defeat Spurs on May 21, there won’t be any grand celebration awaiting them back in Manchester. Rather than a trophy parade which Tottenham have planned, United are expected to stage a “low-key” barbecue at the club’s training ground.
The subdued reception is a response to United’s dire domestic campaign. Ruben Amorim has overseen just six wins from 25 Premier League games at an average of 0.96 points per game. Erik ten Hag was sacked after clocking up a ratio 1.22 points across the first 11 matches of the campaign.
Amorim has made no secret about his concerns over United’s form. “How a manager of Manchester United is supposed to feel in that position – embarrassed, and it’s hard to accept. I think everybody has to think seriously about a lot of things here.”
