Wayne Rooney Calls Amorim ‘Naive’ for Man Utd Premier League Title Ambitions – Fair Criticism or Too Harsh?

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has defended his bold claim that the club’s ultimate goal is to reclaim the Premier League title, despite facing criticism from club legend Wayne Rooney, who labeled his comments as “naive.”

United’s underwhelming season under Amorim has seen them struggle for consistency, suffering nine defeats in 23 games before crashing out of the FA Cup to Fulham on penalties in the fifth round. This has left the Europa League as the club’s only realistic shot at silverware and European qualification for next season.

Yet, even in the midst of turbulence, Amorim remains defiant, reaffirming his long-term vision for Manchester United’s return to the top.

Amorim’s Ambition vs. Rooney’s Realism

Speaking to BBC Sport post-match and later in his press conference, Amorim stood firm on his belief that the club’s primary objective is to reclaim Premier League glory, something they haven’t achieved since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.

“The goal is to win the Premier League,” Amorim stated. “I know we are losing games, but the goal is to win it again. I don’t know how long it will take, but we have a goal and we continue forward no matter what.”

While optimism is an essential trait for any manager leading a fallen giant like United, Rooney, speaking as a Match of the Day pundit, was quick to dismiss Amorim’s comments as out of touch with the club’s current reality.

“I think it’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now, they’re a long way off that,” Rooney remarked.

The former United captain and all-time leading goalscorer stressed the need for short-term objectives rather than lofty ambitions that could further alienate frustrated fans.

“I think he’ll get time, but it’s not a free hit because he’ll expect more from Manchester United than what we’re seeing since he’s been in,” Rooney added.

“He says winning the Premier League, but how can they compete? Getting further up the table should be the next step.”

Rooney’s words carry weight. As a player, he experienced Manchester United at its peak, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League under Ferguson. His insight into what it takes to win at the highest level is grounded in first-hand experience.

However, his own managerial record hasn’t been flawless. While he was praised for his work at Derby County in tough financial circumstances, his stints at DC United, Birmingham, and Plymouth have been less convincing.

Amorim, however, chose not to engage in a war of words over Rooney’s credentials but instead clarified his stance on the club’s ambitions.

Amorim Responds: “I Know It’s Not Instant”

The 40-year-old Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim was quick to acknowledge that United’s struggles won’t disappear overnight, but he dismissed the notion that his ambitions were misplaced.

“That (winning the Premier League) is the goal. To be naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season,” he explained.

Having briefly worked as a pundit himself before embarking on his coaching career, Amorim also hinted at how easy it is to analyze from the outside compared to the realities of managing a club.

“I know in this moment, everybody knows everything. I was a pundit when I finished my (playing) career. I know it’s really easy.”

Amorim then emphasized that the club’s historical identity is built on winning, and despite their current struggles, the objective remains unchanged.

“Maybe it is not with me, but our goal as a club is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great glories and legends of this club.”

Though he understands the magnitude of the challenge, Amorim remains determined, reinforcing that he is far from naive and fully aware of the difficulties ahead.

“We are in a difficult moment. And I’m not naive, that’s why I’m here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United.”

Who’s Right – Rooney or Amorim?

At face value, Wayne Rooney’s criticism seems fair. United have been miles off the pace set by Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal, and their current squad lacks the cohesion and dominance of past title-winning sides.

However, Amorim’s long-term vision isn’t necessarily misguided. Every top club must have an ultimate goal – and for a club of United’s stature, simply aiming for top-four finishes or domestic cup runs wouldn’t align with their legacy.

Short-Term Fix or Long-Term Vision?

• Rooney’s View → Focus on short-term progress, improve performances, secure European qualification, and then build from there.
• Amorim’s View → Set a clear long-term goal (winning the Premier League) while acknowledging the time and effort needed to get there.

In reality, both perspectives hold value. Amorim’s ambition keeps United’s identity alive, but Rooney’s pragmatism reflects their current struggles.

The real question is: Can Amorim bridge the gap between ambition and execution before the pressure mounts? Or will his optimism ultimately cost him his job?