Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim is covering the cost for multiple members of his staff and their relatives to attend the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, according to multiple reports.
In a continuation of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s extensive financial restrictions, the co-owner is thought to have taken away the previous privilege of complimentary tickets for club employees. Staff are instead expected to be invited to a watch party in Manchester with the offer of two drinks vouchers.
However, it now appears that Amorim has taken it upon himself to reward the work of his backroom team.
The Athletic and ESPN report that Amorim has covered the cost of travel and accommodation of up to two guests for 30 employees, including coaches, physios and other “lower-paid” support staff members. This is the luxury afforded to all first-team players, who have received a pair of complimentary tickets for 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.”
