Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has delivered a stark reality check to his players, insisting the team remains 'far from perfection' despite enjoying a five-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League.
A Year in Charge: Progress with Perspective
The warning comes as Monday marks exactly one year since the Portuguese coach took charge of his first game for the club, a 1-1 draw away to Ipswich Town. As United prepare to host Everton at Old Trafford, Amorim is acutely aware of the long journey still required to restore the club to the summit of English football.
'I think we are better, I think we are in a better moment,' Amorim admitted in a recent press conference. He pointed to improved training intensity and overall processes but was quick to temper any premature optimism.
The Pursuit of Perfection
'We are not perfect, and when I watch trainings, when I watch games, we are far from perfection,' he stated emphatically. The manager outlined the exacting standards required to compete at the highest level, emphasising the need for flawless positioning, intensity, and a slice of luck.
'To be really honest with you, we are better but far from perfection, and we need to do that, especially to win in this league,' Amorim explained. 'We need to be perfect in everything to try to get to the top of the table, so we are far from the perfect environment.'
Unbeaten But Unsatisfied
The team's current form stems from a dramatic 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur before the international break, a result that means United have not tasted defeat since their loss to Brentford on September 27.
However, Amorim's frustration is palpable, particularly as his side has taken just two points from a possible six in their last two outings. 'We need to think to be six games unbeaten, but then unbeaten is not enough,' he added candidly.
'I came from these last two games, but especially the last one, very frustrated. So for us it's not enough, in this club it doesn't matter at the moment, it's not enough to be unbeaten. Unbeaten is not everything.' This sobering message sets a clear tone for the crucial period ahead as Manchester United seeks to bridge the gap to the league's elite.
