United Boss Claims Referees ‘Protect’ Arsenal After Calafiori’s Decisive Header Sparks Fury
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim was left fuming after a controversial Arsenal goal condemned his side to a frustrating 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford, with the Portuguese coach insisting his team deserved more.
The decisive moment came in the 13th minute when Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori nodded home from a corner after United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was crowded out by a swarm of Arsenal players. Amorim claimed the officials failed to protect his keeper, comparing the incident to a similar grievance from last season.
“It’s Not Playing the Ball—It’s Protecting the Attackers”
Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, Amorim didn’t hold back. “It’s the same as last year—they’re not playing the ball, they’re protecting the attackers,” he said. “I get that we want goals, but when you’re blocking the keeper like that, it’s a foul. Losing like this is hard to accept.”
Despite dominating large spells of the game, United couldn’t break down a resilient Arsenal defense. Gunners keeper David Raya made several key saves, including a stunning first-half stop to deny Matheus Cunha.
Amorim, however, found positives in his team’s performance, praising their bravery and aggression compared to last season. “I’m proud of the boys—they fought hard, played with courage, and we deserved more,” he said. “We pressed high, kept the ball better, and most importantly, we weren’t boring.”
New signings Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo impressed, with Amorim highlighting their impact. “They bring something different—with and without the ball. We’re building something here.”
Arteta Hails “Massive” Win as Arsenal Grind It Out
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta celebrated a hard-fought victory, calling it a “massive” result. “The players want more—that’s the standard now,” he said. “Before, going 20 years without winning here was normal. Now we expect to win, and even then, we’re not satisfied.”
United captain Bruno Fernandes echoed Amorim’s frustration, claiming Bayindir was fouled. “If the keeper can’t jump, that’s a problem,” Fernandes said. “The referees say they’ll call these things, but nothing changes.”
At the other end, Raya admitted Arsenal weren’t at their best but praised his side’s resilience. “We fought hard—sometimes you have to win ugly,” he said.
What’s Next?
United travel to Fulham on Sunday, while Arsenal host newly promoted Leeds United on Saturday. For Amorim, the challenge is clear: turn performances into results—and fast.
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