Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admitted his side “deserved the boos” after a 1-0 defeat to a Southeast Asian XI in front of 72,550 fans at Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Jalil National Stadium on May 28.
Following their worst-ever Premier League finish — 15th place — the Red Devils looked lethargic and uninspired in the sweltering 32°C heat, sparking frustration among supporters. Some left early, and loud boos rang out at full-time.
United’s continued struggles in attack were on full display, underlining reports that the club is prepared to spend £62.5 million (S$100 million) to sign Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Amorim declined to confirm the deal but didn’t hide his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance.
“We were slow, and we still don’t have the hunger to win every exercise in training, every game,” said Amorim. “The boos from the fans — it’s something we need.”
Despite fielding a strong lineup including Harry Maguire, Rasmus Hojlund, Casemiro, Diogo Dalot, and Andre Onana, United were second-best for much of the match. Burmese forward Maung Maung Lwin stunned the visitors with a spectacular strike in the 71st minute past Tom Heaton.
Amorim stressed the need for renewed belief and intensity: “These people believe in Manchester United no matter what. It’s our duty to improve and restore pride.”
According to the BBC, United’s proposed deal for Cunha involves paying the fee in three instalments over two years after Wolves rejected a five-year plan. Cunha, who scored 17 goals last season, has expressed his ambition to compete for major trophies.
United will look to bounce back when they face a Hong Kong select team on May 30 in the next leg of their Asian tour.
