“Manchester United will win Europa League but only if Ruben Amorim do ONE thing and here’s it”: Man City coach Pep Guardiola has advised Ruben Amorim to do one thing if he really want to win Europa League this season
As the UEFA Europa League heads into its decisive stages, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has weighed in on the competition’s favorites and revealed the one crucial move Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim must make if he hopes to stop Manchester United from lifting the trophy.
Speaking during a press conference ahead of City’s weekend fixture, Guardiola was asked about his views on the Europa League race. While tipping Manchester United as strong favorites, the Spaniard issued a word of tactical advice for Sporting boss Amorim, whose side is one of the remaining challengers.
“I believe Manchester United will win the Europa League,” Guardiola began. “But only if Ruben Amorim doesn’t do one important thing — and here’s what it is.”
Guardiola then explained that Amorim must abandon his usual cautious, possession-heavy style and instead adopt a more aggressive, high-pressing game against United if the two sides meet.
“You cannot sit back against United. If you give them time and space on the ball, especially players like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford, they’ll punish you,” Guardiola warned. “Amorim’s team has to press high, be brave, disrupt their rhythm, and control transitions. That’s the only way I see anyone stopping them.”
The City boss, known for his tactical expertise, also praised Amorim’s work at Sporting Lisbon but insisted the Portuguese coach must be willing to take risks in a knockout setting.
“It’s a final, or a semifinal — you don’t win by playing safe,” Guardiola concluded.
His comments have since made headlines, with pundits and fans debating whether Amorim will take the advice on board should Sporting Lisbon cross paths with Manchester United in the latter stages of the competition.
One thing’s for certain — with both clubs still in the hunt and Guardiola watching on, the Europa League promises plenty of drama before the final whistle.