"I really do": Ratcliffe now confirms he wants to keep United man for "a long time"

Manchester United played out a frustrating 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Red Devils were the better side in the second half of the encounter, but they could not score the winner against David Raya, who was exceptional between the sticks.

Shortly after that game, BBC Sport conducted an interview with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who said that manager Ruben Amorim is doing a ‘really good’ job at the moment.

The 72-year-old added the Portuguese is an ‘outstanding’ young manager and thinks the 40-year-old will be at the Red Devils for ‘a long time’.

He said: “If I actually look at the squad available to Ruben [Amorim], I think he is doing a really good job to be honest. I think Ruben is an outstanding young manager.

“I really do. He’s an excellent manager and I think he will be there for a long time.”

Ratcliffe’s support towards Amorim is good news

Amorim has had a tough start to his managerial career at United. The Red Devils have languished in the bottom half of the league and may not break into the top ten this term.

This has spread speculation that the club could contemplate a change. A recent report said that the hierarchy could be tempted to return for Xavi Hernandez this summer.

However, this has been rubbished by Ratcliffe’s comments, who has backed Amorim to stay for the long run. The Portuguese can now concentrate on his job without any outside noise.

Amorim needs more players suited for his 3-4-2-1 system. He will be backed with a spending spree later this year, but some incomings could primarily depend on player sales.

Marcus Rashford, Antony, Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are poised to be sold. Kobbie Mainoo’s future is likewise uncertain amid his ongoing contract stand-off with the Red Devils.

United are also expected to save wages with Victor Lindelof, Christian Eriksen and Jonny Evans coming to the end of their contracts (June 30).

Article written by Sri Aswin .