Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim said his players lacked an “understanding” of the game’s management after Bournemouth won 3-0 at Old Trafford for the second year in a row on Sunday.
Dean Huijsen’s header in the 30th minute, Justin Kluivert’s penalty after 61 minutes and Antoine Semenyo’s goal two minutes later ensured United remained in 13th, eight points off fourth place.
“After the penalty and the (quick) third goal, it was really tough for the players and fans,” Amorim said after United suffered a second straight home defeat BBC Sport.
“It is a very difficult moment, but we already knew it was a difficult context. Our focus is on staying calm when you achieve a goal.
“We have to manage these moments and try to give the players some calm, understanding that the game has different moments.”
🗣️ “It’s hard to push for two or three wins. We’re trying. But this game was tough for us.”
Ruben Amorim reflects on Man Utd’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth 🔴 pic.twitter.com/ytBCa38Y7l
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024
Amorim: United “ready for the challenge”
Huijsen’s opener underlined United’s vulnerability from set pieces as the Cherries finished fifth, ahead of Aston Villa and Manchester City.
Bruno Fernandes sent a shot wide but was denied by visiting goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga before half-time, sending Amorim to defeat for the fourth time in their nine-game reign.
“We conceded a foul, a set piece and a goal,” said the Portuguese, who arrived from Sporting on November 1st.
“Then we had a lot of opportunities – without playing really, really well, we won second balls, created chances and got close to the goal. We have one way to improve: train. We are ready to take on the challenge.”
+3 😉 pic.twitter.com/XYWGCGsC5c
– AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) December 22, 2024
Marcus Rashford’s return is uncertain
Amorim was non-committal about Marcus Rashford’s involvement when United face Wolves in their next game on December 26 (5.30pm GMT).
Former England striker Rashford is contracted until 2028 but has been left out of United’s last three matchday squads.
United have lost four of their last five home games and are preparing to host Newcastle on December 30 (8pm) before facing current league leaders Liverpool on January 5 (4.30pm).
