No European Football Could Be An Advantage For United, Says Amorim

KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 (Bernama) -- Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim believes the club’s absence from European football next season could work to their advantage as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.

The 40-year-old Portuguese tactician said that with United missing out on European football, it presents an opportunity for the team to better prepare and build a strong core for the future.

“I have to say that for us not to be in the Champions League could be an advantage, to perform well and prepare better the games. To build that core we need for the future. 

“So I think it's good for us to take advantage of not having European games,” he told a pre-match press conference ahead of the Maybank Challenge Cup match between United and ASEAN All-Stars here, today.

United will not feature in European competition next season after finishing 15th with 42 points in the Premier League this season.

He declined to go into specifics about next season’s target, merely stating that it was important to win the first game and that the team had a lot to do in the summer in terms of preparation as expectations were that United would be at the top once again.

Amorim did admit that United was open to any player donning the club jersey, including those from Southeast Asia, provided they meet the club’s standards.

“We want the best players in the world. If I see someone (from the ASEAN All-Stars) with value, he could be in our list. No matter the region, you all have space if you can perform and you are one of the best in the world,” he said.

The clash between United and the ASEAN All-Stars is scheduled to take place at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here, tomorrow night.

The last time the Red Devils played in Malaysia was during the 2009 pre-season tour, beating Malaysia XI twice, 3-2 and 2-0, respectively on July 18 and 20 at the National Stadium.

The 13-time Premier League champions, who have endured a dismal season by their lofty standards are also scheduled to travel to Hong Kong as part of their post-season tour to play against the Hong Kong national team at the Hong Kong Stadium on May 30.

-- BERNAMA