“Baby Coach” or Just Growing Pains? Guardiola’s Alleged Dig at Amorim After Europa League Final Defeat
Manchester United’s Europa League journey ended in disappointment with a 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the final at San Mamés Stadium.
A deflected cross from Pape Matar Sarr resulted in an own goal via Luke Shaw, credited to Brennan Johnson in the 42nd minute. Despite dominating possession, United couldn’t mount a comeback, handing Spurs their first major title since 2008.
In the aftermath, rumors swirled about a sharp comment allegedly made by Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola toward United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim:
> “Ruben Amorim is a baby coach after what he did today against Tottenham. I warned him about this particular player, but he ignored me. Now look at the result.”
Though the quote remains unconfirmed, it has stirred debate over Amorim’s tactical choices and decision-making in the final.
Amorim’s stint at Old Trafford has been turbulent. Since his appointment in November, United endured a rough domestic season, finishing a historic low of 16th in the Premier League.
Key injuries—like those to Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo—further complicated his efforts. However, guiding the club to a European final provided a rare highlight in an otherwise bleak campaign.
Tactical criticism has centered on Amorim’s preference for a 3-4-3 system, which many pundits argue doesn’t align with United’s current squad makeup.
Former player Stephen Warnock noted that the setup limited attacking fluidity and made chance creation difficult.
Following the defeat, Amorim admitted the squad had “many problems” and stressed the need for short-term fixes over long-term excuses:
> “Even in games like this, it’s clear we still have a lot to improve.”
As the dust settles on a trying season, all eyes will be on whether Amorim can evolve beyond early missteps—or if Guardiola’s alleged “baby coach” jab will prove prophetic.
