Ruben Amorim Admits Man United “Lacked Quality” After Wolves Hold Them at Old Trafford
On the international duty come back to join the squad. | Photo Credit: Getty Images via The Hindu
Manchester: Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his team “lacked quality” after being held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford, a result that further dented the club’s hopes of securing Champions League football next season. Wolves, who had gone into the game without a single Premier League win this season, earned just their third point and ended a 12-match losing streak.
United took the lead through Joshua Zirkzee, whose shot deflected into the net, but failed to assert control over the game. Wolves responded with a header from Ladislav Krejci, punishing United’s inability to defend a set-piece and leaving the home side frustrated once again.
Speaking after the match, Amorim was blunt in his assessment of United’s performance. He said the team lacked fluidity, creativity and cutting edge in the final third, issues that proved costly against a side low on confidence. Amorim stressed that small details made the difference, especially in tight games where margins are minimal.
United’s problems were compounded by several key absences. Captain Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo were all sidelined with injuries, while Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo were unavailable due to their involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations. The lack of creative options was evident as United struggled to break down Wolves’ compact defensive shape.
Despite the setback, United remain sixth in the Premier League table, sitting two points outside the top four. However, dropped points at Old Trafford have become a worrying trend, with the club failing to win four of their last five home matches. Those results have significantly weakened what could have been a strong push for a return to Europe’s elite competition.
Amorim, though, remains optimistic about the remainder of the season. He highlighted how different the midfield dynamics are when players like Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes are available, compared to relying on more defensive options such as Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte.
The United boss expressed confidence that performances will improve once injured players return and AFCON absentees are back in the squad. He believes the team has the quality to finish the season strongly if it can regain balance and rhythm.
Our Final Thoughts
The draw against Wolves once again exposed Manchester United’s struggles when key creative players are missing. While Amorim’s confidence in a late-season surge is understandable, United cannot afford many more slip-ups. With Champions League qualification still within reach, improving home form and efficiency in attack will be crucial in the weeks ahead.