Man United Confidential: United take a dim view of Amorim questions
Red Devils unhappy with Braga boss' comments
Manchester United are said to be unhappy with Braga boss Artur Jorge's comments about Cristiano Ronaldo. Amorim suggested that Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford had been a negative one, saying that the Portuguese star had "not brought anything" to the team. United sources have hit back at these claims, saying that Ronaldo has been a positive influence on the squad and has helped to improve the team's performances on the pitch.
The comments from Amorim come after Braga's 1-0 defeat to United in the Europa League quarter-final first leg. Ronaldo started the game on the bench but came on in the second half and made a positive impact, helping United to create several chances. Amorim's comments are therefore seen as being particularly disrespectful to Ronaldo and to United as a whole.
United confident of reaching semi-finals
Despite the defeat in Braga, United are confident of reaching the semi-finals of the Europa League. The Red Devils have a strong record at Old Trafford in European competition and will be looking to overturn the one-goal deficit in the second leg. Ronaldo is likely to start the game and will be key to United's hopes of success. The Portuguese star has scored six goals in the Europa League this season and is United's top scorer in the competition. He will be looking to add to his tally and help United reach the semi-finals.
Amorim's comments may damage Braga's chances
Amorim's comments could damage Braga's chances of progressing in the Europa League. The Portuguese boss has angered United and his comments could motivate the Red Devils to produce a strong performance in the second leg. Amorim's comments could also have a negative impact on Braga's players. The comments could create a sense of division within the squad and make it difficult for the players to perform at their best.
Braga will need to be at their best if they are to reach the semi-finals. The Portuguese side will need to score at least one goal at Old Trafford and keep Ronaldo quiet. Amorim's comments have made this task even more difficult and it is now unlikely that Braga will progress to the semi-finals.
