Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim ignores social media to protect his mental health, even if it costs him lucrative sponsorship deals.
MANCHESTER: Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says he ignores social media to protect himself from abuse, even at the cost of lucrative sponsorship contracts.
The Portuguese coach has endured a turbulent first year in charge at Old Trafford.
United finished 15th in the Premier League last season, their worst top-flight campaign since being relegated in 1973/74.
Recent results have slightly improved, lifting Amorim’s side to seventh ahead of West Ham’s visit on Thursday.
The 40-year-old said online abuse is now expected for top-level managers.
“I don’t read it. I protect myself,” he told a pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
“I don’t watch TV when they talk about Manchester United. Not because I don’t agree, most of the time I do. But it is a way of me being healthy.”
Amorim explained that his own critical feelings after poor performances are burden enough.
“The only way is to protect myself. Of course I lose money in sponsorships. On Instagram I could win a lot of money,” he said.
He added that his family’s wellbeing and a normal life are more valuable than extra income.
United forward Matheus Cunha is set to return from injury on Thursday.
The Brazilian missed the last two games after beginning to find his form following a June move from Wolves.
“He has more levels to go,” added Amorim.
“He is at a different club with different pressure, but I think he copes with that well.”
Amorim noted that Cunha was initially overthinking his goal output, but his influence on the team is vital.
The manager believes the forward has significant room for growth in both defence and attack.
United remain without the injured Harry Maguire and Benjamin Sesko. – AFP
