Amorim’s Surprising Take: Fernandes Impresses, Maguire Praised Ahead of United’s Brighton Showdown

Amorim Previews Brighton Showdown

Manchester United manager Rubén Amorim held his Friday evening press conference ahead of the eagerly awaited clash with Brighton on Saturday, as part of the Premier League's ninth round.

Amorim spoke about the players' fitness, his stance on captain Harry Maguire's contract, Bruno Fernandes' character ahead of his 300th appearance for the club, and he assessed his upcoming opponent and the team's morale and tactical state.

He opened the conference by confirming that the team is generally in good shape, but with a few doubts surrounding key personnel.

The team is in good shape, but we have some doubts. We've had a few issues this week with Harry Maguire and Mason Mount. There's nothing to worry about, just a few bruises, and we'll see tomorrow.

Amorim seems cautious about any potential injuries, given the team's crowded schedule in recent weeks, especially after last weekend's win at Anfield against Liverpool, which boosted the dressing room's confidence.

Asked about the future of English defender Harry Maguire, who has regained a starting place recently, Amorim replied: 'We're very happy with Harry, but it's not the time to talk about that. Delving into players' contracts now would give the impression we're thinking long-term, while we should be focused on the present.'

On captain Bruno Fernandes, who will reach his 300th Manchester United appearance if he plays, Amorim commented on his real impression after working with him: 'He's a little different from what I had heard and read about him; he always wants to help teammates a lot, and sometimes not in the best way, but with a pure intention.'

He added: 'He wants to shoulder responsibility all the time, and you can see he takes things personally when we do not win games. We'll see if he reaches that number tomorrow.'

Regarding Fernandes, who would make his 300th appearance if he plays, Amorim spoke about his true impression: 'He's a little different from what you hear and read about him; he always wants to help teammates, sometimes not in the best way, but with a pure heart.'

He added: 'He wants to take responsibility all the time, and you can see he takes things personally when we don't win. We'll see if he reaches that mark tomorrow.'

Amorim spoke about the importance of small details in football that can change outcomes: 'I don't want to change much for a 20-centimeter difference. If Jakub's shot had been 20 cm different, the story would be different.'

He continued: 'When you are a coach and you don't win many games, people start to doubt you, and there are reasons for that. But in my view, we must be clear about our path and not change too much just because we won one game.'

On facing Brighton and their young coach Fabian Horzelr, Amorim expressed strong admiration: 'I think it will be a very tough game. Brighton are an entertaining side to watch, very good at building play, strong in transitions, and in every facet of the game they are delivering excellent form this season.'

He praised the southern outfit's organization: 'They are a really complete team. We must be very smart and approach the match with full focus because they are a strong side. You can see from their style how intense their tempo is and the quality of their level; I'm a big fan of Fabian.'

Regarding the team’s adaptability and performance shifts at halftime in some games, Amorim commented: 'We have one identity and a clear way of playing, but we adapt according to the match type and conditions we face. You can notice the first half against Sunderland wasn't like the second half. We know how to manage that.'

And reflect on the Liverpool clash: 'We scored a goal on the first attack, then managed the game in a different style because the moment demanded it, which is good. Then there's spirit, and when you have strong collective spirit, you sometimes get the touch of luck you need to win.'

He dismissed dwelling on last round's gains, saying: 'We take the good mood from victories. We know the weekend was favorable for us, but our focus is only on the next match.'

He concluded by updating on Argentine defender Lisandro Martínez's recovery: 'He's training very well, not with us but on the adjacent pitch. I've been watching him and he feels very good. He's responding well.'

He added: 'I don't want to set a specific day or week for his return, because it depends on training pace and his physical progression.'

Punchline: If this press conference were a sprint, Amorim would still be talking when the whistle blows. Punchline 2: Brighton may have the tempo, but United bring the suspense—it's a match where the scoreboard might just need a map to keep up.