Ruben Amorim credited Manchester United’s legendary never-say-die spirit—and memories of the club’s iconic 1999 Champions League final comeback—as inspiration for their astonishing 5-4 extra-time victory over Lyon, which secured a 7-6 aggregate win and a place in the Europa League semi-finals.
Reflecting on the wild night at Old Trafford, Amorim admitted he had recently watched the documentary about United’s 1999 Treble-winning season for motivation. “I was watching the ’99 documentary to get some inspiration for this moment. Nights like this show you it’s never over at Old Trafford,” he said.
United looked down and out at 4-2 behind in extra time, but late goals from Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Harry Maguire completed a comeback for the ages. Amorim explained his tactical switch, pushing Maguire forward in search of a goal. “We put Harry up front because he’s our best header of the ball. Kobbie, even after his injury, is so good in tight spaces—and tonight, it worked.”
Amorim acknowledged the toll of a stretched squad, with injuries and unexpected absences forcing changes. “Premier League and European games are tough if you’re not at full strength. We had to adapt on the fly, but the players gave everything.”
He also addressed United’s inconsistent league form, noting fatigue and a lack of depth have been factors. “The league table reflects our struggles, but in Europe, we’ve shown another side. Garnacho was exhausted, but he kept pushing—sometimes he’s our only outlet for transitions.”
Asked if he believes United’s name is on the trophy, Amorim was cautious but hopeful. “The atmosphere in the stadium made everyone believe. We need some luck with injuries, but we have a clear target now. I’ve lost a European final before; maybe this time, as a coach, we can change that.”
The United boss described the noise after Mainoo and Maguire’s goals as unforgettable. “That sound in the stadium is something I want to keep forever. It makes all the suffering and criticism worth it. We know we’ve underperformed at times, but we still have a chance to make this season special.”
Looking ahead to the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, Amorim insisted anything is possible. “Tonight showed our character. We may not always play perfect football, but we fight. Now we focus on the semi-finals, knowing the job isn’t finished yet.”