I made some mistakes: Ruben Amorim apologises to Manchester United fans after AC Milan unveiling
By Joel Masibo, July 8, 2026New AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim has expressed regret for not addressing Manchester United supporters following his departure in January 2026 while insisting he remains grateful for the chance to have led the club.
Since leaving Old Trafford, the Portuguese coach avoided public comments and chose not to reflect on his spell with the Premier League side through social media or other platforms.
The 41-year-old has now returned to management after agreeing to a three-year deal with AC Milan.
Speaking for the first time as Milan’s new head coach during his official presentation on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Amorim spent more than half an hour answering questions before finally being asked about his Manchester United tenure.
Earlier in the press conference, the former Sporting manager acknowledged that his previous job had taught him valuable lessons. He admitted making errors and said the experience had strengthened his determination to succeed in Italy.
Amorim sends apologies
When invited to explain those mistakes, Amorim preferred not to go into detail, instead offering an apology to Manchester United fans for not speaking to them after his exit.
“It is hard to explain the mistakes as I would have to explain all the context of the last adventure,” he said.
“The only thing I can say is that I learn a lot and I did some mistakes.
“I didn’t have [the] opportunity – and I am sorry for that – to say something to the Manchester United fans at the moment [but] I am really proud to have been their coach for a year.
“Now it is a different history. There are a lot of things I could do better in the last experience. But sometimes it is like that. You need to learn to reach a different level. That is my thinking here.
“Everyone learns from their experience. I learn a lot. I did some mistakes. I will try to change but there are some things you never change. I think I will be better. That is all.”
Emotional re-union
In an interesting twist, Amorim’s AC Milan side will face Manchester United in their final pre-season friendly in Poland on August 15, 2026.
Throughout his introductory media appearance, Amorim answered every question in English, apologising to Italian journalists for not yet being fluent in their language.
He was joined by Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, who revealed he plans to become more directly involved with the club after a disappointing finish to last season. Milan collected only seven points from their final eight league matches and failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
Among Amorim’s immediate priorities is convincing veteran midfielder Luka Modric to continue at the club.
The Croatian captain, now 40, has the option of extending his current agreement for another year but has not yet reached a decision.
“Modric is a player we want to keep for his experience,” said Amorim.
“I know the board spoke with Modric and I spoke to him two times. If I need to, I will go and get the guy. He played really well and is a key point for us, especially in the beginning, to keep possession. I am not going to say he is going to play all the games but we really want to count with him next season.” He said.