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.
That’s a spicy take from Guardiola — and it definitely adds an intriguing tactical subplot if Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon clash in the Europa League. Here’s a breakdown of what makes his comments so impactful:
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**1. Guardiola Picking United as Favorites? That’s Big.**
Pep doesn’t casually hand out praise to Manchester United, so his prediction speaks volumes about how dangerous he views Rúben Amorim’s men underestimating Erik ten Hag’s attack. It also shows respect for how United’s European form has evolved.
**2. Tactical Advice with Bite:**
Guardiola’s warning is layered:
– **Don’t play safe.** Amorim’s tendency to control games with possession might backfire against a United side that thrives in transition.
– **High pressing is key.** Disrupting Bruno’s rhythm and Rashford’s movement before they get going could neutralize United’s attacking threat.
It echoes what many analysts have said — United struggle most when pinned high and forced into quick decisions at the back.
**3. Mind Games or Genuine Help?**
Is Pep being sincere, or is this classic Guardiola psychology? Giving advice that nudges Amorim toward a more open game could ironically play into United’s hands. Rashford, Garnacho, and even a resurgent Mason Greenwood can thrive with space behind the defense.
**4. Amorim’s Dilemma:**
Stick to what’s worked all season or heed Pep’s advice in a high-stakes knockout match? The Sporting coach has built a reputation on calculated discipline, but this challenge could demand bold tweaks.
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Would you like a tactical preview if United and Sporting do get drawn together — with predicted lineups and how Amorim might actually apply (or ignore) Pep’s advice?
