Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim acknowledged that his team might “need the boos” following a 1-0 loss to ASEAN All-Stars in their first match during the post-season tour.
Harry Maguire led the team, with first-team players including Casemiro, Patrick Dorgu, Andre Onana, Ayden Heaven, Diogo Dalot, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, and Rasmus Hojlund starting in Kuala Lumpur.
At halftime, with the score still 0-0, Amorim made 11 changes, introducing Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho, Jonny Evans, and Amad Diallo. However, Maung Maung Lwin scored the only goal in the 71st minute, condemning Amorim’s underperforming squad to another defeat.
The fans expressed their disappointment through boos, and Amorim responded to the mixed reception by stating, “I take responsibility for the team’s performance. Since my arrival, I have felt this weight. The booing from the supporters might be necessary. They’ve consistently supported us through our Premier League losses.”
Amorim characterized United’s season as “disastrous,” given their 15th place finish in the Premier League and Europa League final loss to Tottenham. The lackluster form continued at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
Garnacho played the full second half amid uncertainties about his future, along with Fernandes, who has attracted interest from Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. Meanwhile, several young academy players received valuable playing time, considered a silver lining in front of a crowd of 72,550, far from Old Trafford.
United’s next match is a friendly in Hong Kong on Friday, which is expected to generate around £8m for the club. Chief Executive Omar Berrada confirmed ambitious transfer plans while emphasizing the need for prudence as the club seeks to rebuild following a disappointing season.
