Manchester United’s defensive midfielder Manuel Ugarte said the team believes in Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese manager had taken the coaching baton from former coach Erik Ten Hag in early November 2024.

United had a horrible run in the previous season, finishing in 15th place with 11 wins, 9 draws and 18 losses, which was their worst performancein last 50 years. The 2025-26 season will be Amorim’s first full season in charge and he would look to get the best out of his players.

Since taking over Erik Ten Hag, Amorim has managed only seven wins with Manchester United and has a win percentage of only 26.

Ugarte, who played under Amorim’s tutelage for Sporting CP, admitted they need to improve in the upcoming season.

“We have to improve things,” Ugarte said as quoted by ESPN. “We have matches to prepare for. We are all very motivated, because we believe in the coach, we believe in what he wants and that is very important.”

“Last year we made some changes, we changed our coach, we changed our formation,” he said. “This year I am good, I am very excited. It is important to perform well in this club, with United.

“You have to have responsibilities when you play for United. I am very happy and we have to keep going.

“Sometimes the connections take time to get to know each other. I already know the league, the rivals, which is important.”

Meanwhile, youngster Toby Collyer could get his chances in the upcoming season but the 21-year-old said he wants to have more minutes after making only 13 appearances in the previous season.

“I want to play as many games as possible,” said Collyer. “I’ll sit down with the manager and higher-ups and see what’s the best solution for that. The best way for me to develop, whether it’s stay here or go on loan.

“The end goal for me is to play as many minutes as possible here, hopefully starting every week. I’ll sit down with them.”

United will take on Bournemouth on Wednesday.