Amorim shrugs off AC Milan criticism ahead of Europa League opener
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineAC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has brushed aside criticism surrounding his start at the club, insisting that scrutiny comes with managing a European giant.
Amorim has guided Milan to an unbeaten start in Serie A, although consecutive draws against Juventus and Lazio have sparked early debate among supporters.
Speaking ahead of Milan’s Europa League League Phase opener against Benfica, the Portuguese tactician said he was unfazed by the criticism and remained focused on protecting his players and doing things his way.
Amorim said: “It’s normal to receive criticism, not me worry, it’s not a problem: sometimes I want to protect my players and this is what I want.
“The good thing about the difficult times you’ve experienced at other clubs is that they give you experience.
“That’s the price you have to pay for being the coach of a big club, so I understand it all very well; it’s normal for me. I’ll do things my way, and I think that’s clear to everyone.”
The former Manchester United manager also rejected the idea of setting a “minimum objective” for Milan in the Europa League, stressing that the club’s expectations leave little room for anything other than winning.
Amorim said: “In large clubs like Milan the concept of minimum objective does not exist. Either you win or you don’t win and if you don’t win there are criticisms. The only objective is to win, to avoid them. That’s my experience.
“I experienced it in Portugal as well, when you don’t get to a final or if you don’t win, it’s a failure.”
The Benfica fixture will also carry a personal significance for Amorim, who spent a large part of his playing career with the Lisbon club.
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However, the 41-year-old insisted that his emotional connection with Benfica would not distract him from his responsibility to Milan.
Amorim said: “Obviously it’s a bit special but I just want to win, honestly.
“I feel the same anxiety playing with Benfica or against another team, I feel the responsibility to help the team to win, it’s difficult and special but it’s to win.”
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