Wayne Rooney calls Ruben Amorim 'naive,' Man United manager responds

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has defended his ambition to win the Premier League after former club captain Wayne Rooney called his comments "naive."

United's FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham on penalties marked their 10th defeat in 24 games under Amorim, intensifying scrutiny over the Portuguese coach’s tenure. With a top-four finish looking increasingly unlikely, the Europa League now remains United’s best shot at securing European football next season.

Despite the club's struggles, Amorim remains firm on his long-term objective. Speaking to BBC Sport and later in his post-match press conference, he reiterated United’s ultimate goal.

"The goal is to win the Premier League," Amorim stated. "I know we are losing games, but the goal is to win the Premier League again. I don't know how long it will take, but we continue forward no matter what."

Rooney, working as a pundit for BBC's coverage of the match, questioned Amorim’s focus on such an ambitious target given United’s current form.

"I think it's a little naive to say they're looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now, they're a long way off that," said Rooney. "I think he'll get time, but it's not a free hit. He says winning the Premier League, but how can they compete? To get further up the table, I think that's the next step for them."

Rooney’s words carry weight, given his legacy at Old Trafford. United’s all-time leading scorer won five Premier League titles and the Champions League, playing a pivotal role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final great team. However, his managerial career has been less successful, with short-lived stints at Derby County, DC United, Birmingham City, and Plymouth.

Amorim chose not to reference Rooney’s record but stood firm in his response.

"To be naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season," Amorim replied. "I know in this moment, everybody knows everything. I was a pundit when I finished my playing career. I know it's really easy."

"Maybe it is not with me, but our goal as a club is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great legends of this club. We are in a difficult moment, and I'm not naive—that's why I'm here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United."

With United’s season hanging in the balance, Amorim's ability to steer the club back on track will be closely scrutinized. The question remains whether his long-term vision can survive the short-term realities of Premier League football.