Ruben Amorim has responded to Roy Keane, stating that his opinion is more significant than the former Manchester United captain’s.
Keane had launched a strong criticism against Bruno Fernandes in a heated discussion with Ian Wright regarding Manchester United’s underperforming players.
Keane, along with Wright, Gary Neville, and Jill Scott, discussed United’s recent performance before their narrow 3-2 victory over Ipswich on Wednesday.
Keane expressed strong disapproval of United’s current squad, who are currently struggling at 14th place in the Premier League.
Keane criticized Fernandes, asserting that the captain’s “talent is not enough” and disapproving of his celebration after scoring a free-kick in United’s 2-2 draw with Everton.
However, Wright strongly disagreed, believing that United would be in a relegation battle if not for the Portuguese midfielder.
Amorim has now defended Fernandes, stating that the opinion of the United manager is the only one that truly matters.
Amorim commented: “I heard about that, and I have a different opinion.”
“Bruno is very important for us at the club, especially for me. He is performing well under challenging circumstances and consistently seeks responsibility.”
“I am aware that sometimes, as captain, he gestures with his hands and is seen criticizing teammates, but this mainly stems from the frustration of this year and last year.”
“Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Roy Keane has high standards for himself and his teams, so it’s natural for him to have strong opinions.”
“I hold a different view, and I believe my opinion is more valid than Roy Keane’s because I am the coach.”
Fernandes is Manchester United’s top scorer this season with ten goals and has been in the starting lineup for almost every game despite the team’s struggles.
Amorim, who is also Portuguese, believes Fernandes’s only flaw is his visible frustration.
The 40-year-old explained: “He is driven to win, and sometimes dealing with that frustration is very difficult.”
Keane’s rant on Stick To Football, sponsored by Sky Bet, included statements like: “Consider the recruitment and the team.”
“Show some fight, some speed, some quality in your play.”
“They draw with Everton, and it’s celebrated as if they’ve won a trophy. It’s utterly bizarre.”
“Even the fans. I see fans at games singing for Bruno [Fernandes]. I think these guys are imposters.”
Wright countered, “No, not Bruno.”
Keane retorted, “You know what, Wrighty? I’ve had enough of that nonsense.”
“People [including him] are pretending to pressure opponents.”
Wright continued to argue that Fernandes has the talent to “rescue” United from their poor form.
Keane sarcastically responded: “They’re 15th in the league. And he’s saving them?! Praise the Lord.”
Bruno was named man of the match against Ipswich and was involved in all three goals at Old Trafford.
However, Fernandes’s captaincy has faced considerable criticism recently.
Concerns have been raised about his perceived immaturity and dramatic reactions on the field, suggesting he might not be the ideal leader.
Fernandes and Amad Diallo are currently United’s top scorers in the Premier League, each with six goals.
Since joining in January 2020, only Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne has created more scoring opportunities than Fernandes.
The Belgian midfielder has provided 109 chances, while Fernandes is close behind with 100.
