Manchester United

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Here's my quick assessment of Manchester United's Premier League season - and a return to my August predictions.

Pre-season prediction: 5th

Ended the season: 15th

Where do you even start?

When a manager, in this case Ruben Amorim, is offering public apologies on the pitch just six months after his appointment, you get the picture of just what a dreadful state a proud club is in.

Amorim also told supporters: "Good days are coming." There is little evidence of this coming to pass at the end of United's worst top-flight season since 1973-74.

They were an utter shambles. On and off the pitch, from the ill-judged (not to mention hugely expensive) decision to keep Erik ten Hag and extend his contract, then sack him, to the total lack of impact from successor Amorim after his arrival in November.

A run to the Europa League final threatened to cover up gaping cracks, as well as the growing discontent with part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, but United reverted to type with a mind-numbingly bad display in losing to Tottenham.

A head coach who seems uneasy in his role. A mediocre squad ill-suited to said coach's preferred three at the back. Unpopular owners. Morale at the club rock bottom.

Other than that...

What I said in August: "Erik ten Hag is still in a job after winning the FA Cup last season but he is surely realistic enough to know he needs a good start to stop speculation rearing its head again, even after signing a new contract."

Read my assessments of the other 19 teams here

Alex Fletcher
BBC Sport journalist

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"It's in the past. It's over."

Those were the words of Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim after his sides' 2-0 victory over Aston Villa brought the curtain down on a difficult campaign at Old Trafford.

The Portuguese addressed those that remained inside the Theatre of Dreams after the full-time whistle, issuing an apology on behalf of himself and the squad.

"I want to apologise for this season. I know you are really disappointed with me and the team," said Amorim.

"After this disastrous season, I want to tell you the good days are coming."

But with a record 18 Premier League defeats and a lowest ever Premier League finish, what went wrong this season?

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It's easy to look all around the pitch and at the system played by Amorim, when it comes to analysing United's shortcomings.

Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir have both made mistakes this season - the latter getting away with one in the final game - and the ability of the wing-backs and central midfielders has been called in to question, while Amorim refused to budge on his tactics.

Despite lapses in concentration, they kept 10 clean sheets and conceded 54 goals this season - only 13 more than champions Liverpool, who doubled their points tally.

And it's the lack of goals that caused the most problems.

According to Opta, United had a shot conversion rate of just 12.3% this season - only Southampton's was lower - as they were outscored by all but four teams in the Premier League.

Their captain Bruno Fernandes topped the charts for chances created, with 91 across the season.

Despite this, no player for United reached double figures for goals in the league, with Fernandes and Amad the top scorers on just eight goals each - that's after the Ivorian missed almost three months with an ankle injury.

Much of the pressure was on Rasmus Hojlund, but the Dane found the net just four times - and along with summer signing Joshua Zirkzee - failed to provide a goal threat at the top of the pitch.

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

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Unless you are the person whose phone it is, it is quite amusing when a ringtone begins to sound in the middle of a news conference.

Jose Mourinho once answered it and started to have a conversation with the person at the other end.

Today, it was Ruben Amorim's phone that went off, just as Major General Khiev Sameth, president of the South-East Asia Football Federation, was explaining how brilliant it was that Manchester United were in Kuala Lumpur at the start of their post-season tour.

Amorim apologised, then, when I asked him if he would have to fine himself - the standard punishment for a phone not being switched off - for the faux pas, he said he should.

"I should have the phone always on silent, especially in this occasion," he said.

"It's a house alarm. When I'm away, I like to control my kids."

Simon Stone in Kuala Lumpur
Chief football news reporter

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Wandering through the plush city centre hotel Manchester United are staying in during their three nights in Kuala Lumpur, it would be easy to conclude everything is well in their world.

Fans are outside and inside trying to get a glimpse of Ruben Amorim's squad and there are plenty of red shirts around as a sign of their devotion to the Red Devils.

Introducing the game between a South-East Asia Select side – skippered by Sergio Aguero (not that one) – organisation president Major General Khiev Sameth spoke of his pride at Malaysia hosting tomorrow night's game.

"It is far more than a football match," he said. "It is a celebration of sporting excellence.

"We are looking forward to an unforgettable night for Asian football. It is a proud moment for Asia and the region."

If you were being cruel, you would say Major General Sameth has not seen too much of United recently.

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Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim says there will be additions to his squad this summer but they are "not allowed to do too much" business because of financial fair play regulations.

The first summer transfer window under a new manager is always a crucial time because it indicates the direction they want the team to go in. But unlike in the past, Amorim says recruitment will be measured and they will look at options in the academy for added squad depth next season.

"It's a good opportunity to see the young players and sometimes we have surprises like Ayden [Heaven], who every time he has played, has proved that he's a first-team player," said Amorim in Kuala Lumpur. "Without the Champions League we also don't need a big squad, we can control in a better way.

"Then we have a plan that is to bring [in] some new players. Our big plan is to improve the team we have and improve the academy as that is our future, as it was in past. It's not going to change so much.

"We have financial fair play rules, so we are not allowed to do so much this summer.

"The important thing is to stick together. We are going to struggle and it is not going to be everything right away. I have a feeling the team is improving and that is the most important thing."

In addition to incomings, there are also expected to be multiple outgoings. Yet one player Amorim is keen to keep is captain Bruno Fernandes, who was a standout performer in a dismal season for the Red Devils.

"We talk about this many times," said Amorim. "You can see by the performance. You can see by the leadership. You can see the passion he has for the game.

"In difficult moments Bruno is the guy who takes responsibility. He should do because he is the captain. He is really important for us and what we want to build for the team."

Manchester United have held talks with 25-year-old Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, who is valued at about £50m. (Talksport, external)

The Old Trafford club also want Wolves and Portugal right-back Nelson Semedo. The 31-year-old will be a free agent this summer. (Football Transfers, external)

United, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have all shown concrete interest AC Milan and Portugal forward Rafael Leao, 25. (Teamtalk, external)

Meanwhile, midfielder Casemiro and winger Alejandro Garnacho are among the players Manchester United want to move on as they look to significantly reduce their squad for next season. (Telegraph - subscription required, external)

Want more transfer stories? Read Tuesday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

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We asked for your views on Paul Robinson's criticism of Ruben Amorim's post-match speech against Aston Villa.

Here are some of your comments:

Dave: Robinson clearly doesn't understand the point here. Amorim was brought in halfway through the season when he wanted to start at the end of the season, and is dealing with a team devoid of talent, some players with attitude problems and three attackers out on loan. Why would you drop all your principles and your system as soon as you come in just because it would paper over the cracks?

Scotty: Who cares what Paul Robinson thinks? Amorim will come good next year. This team needs to be stripped and rebuilt and not only has Ruben spoke the truth throughout his time at United, so far he's not been afraid to call out players and make it clear he won't change his style.

Colin: Robinson is right. You play to the strengths of the squad until you can get the pieces in place to play the formation and style you prefer.

David: It feels like Amorim can't win with the pundits. Robinson is criticising him, but what is he expected to say? He apologised, admitted the season was a disaster and said better times are coming. Does Robinson expect him to stand in front of the fans and say how great everything has been? I'm sure he'd be criticised if he did that, too.

Martyn: Completely agree. Amorim did very well in Portugal but his huge shortfalls have been found out in the Premier League. One-dimensional tactics, unable to find ways to change and influence a match with substitutions, similar players brought on with same formation and tactics and he does not change things that aren't going well.

Joe: Not sure what ex-goalkeeper Paul Robinson's management credentials are but Manchester United have been broken for over a decade. I, for one, buy into Amorim's approach and not falling into the quick-fix solution like every predecessor post Fergie. Fixing culture and bad leadership takes time.

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Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson says Ruben Amorim is churning the same narrative every week without actually showing signs he is improving the team.

Addressing the Manchester United fans from the centre circle at Old Trafford, Amorim apologised for a "disaster" of a season and assured supporters that "good days are coming".

"I am not buying into him," said Robinson on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "The longer it goes on, the less I start to believe in him or trust him.

"It is the same stuff every week, in that he is telling you how bad his team is, how bad his players are and how the club should be doing better and how he should be doing better. Well that is what you are there for, so do better!

"When a manager gets a job, it is usually because they are in a poor run of games. You don't just come in and say: 'I'm going to play this system and I am sticking to it'.

"Instead, you explain the system that you will play eventually and you tell them it is because it has served you well in the past. You don't play it to start with because of not having the personnel, but eventually you start to see that formation.

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"It should have been about plugging gaps and holes to stop leaking goals and then winning football matches. He hasn't done that.

"There was no short-term plan with Amorim as he is sticking to his plan resolutely and they are going to have to back him if they are sticking with him.

"It is not a quick fix so I think Manchester United will have to endure a lot more pain before they get to where they need to be."

Do you agree with Robinson that Amorim should talk less and do more?

Or do you like his honest approach and believe in his plan?

Let us know your thoughts

Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

Sarah Mulkerrins
Final Score reporter at Old Trafford

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With low expectations, Manchester United surprised.

The fans have not had much to cheer about this season, but they slowly came to life around Old Trafford as they watched their side dominate Champions League-chasing Aston Villa.

Their chances were frequent and varied - with 25 shots, 10 on target, during the game. Quite how they did not find the net until the 76th minute had Ruben Amorim kicking a water bottle in frustration before they broke the deadlock.

Their first win in the league since March ensured Amorim's post-match speech on the pitch fell on more supportive ears. He apologised to all in the stadium and said next season would be better.

A glimmer of hope for the summer, but the hard work of restructuring a squad to suit his style and the owners budget is only starting.

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The Premier League season might be over, but there is no rest for Ruben Amorim's men.

Following the final game of the season, Manchester United have already flown to Malaysia for their two-match trip in Asia, before returning at the end of the week.

Former Premier League midfielder Michael Brown and goalkeeper Paul Robinson disagree with the trip because of player welfare after what has already been a gruelling fixture-packed season.

"I don't understand why it has been put into their schedule," Brown said on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "There are international fixtures coming up as well.

"We talk about players' schedules all the time and there just seems to be getting more and more pressure on them.

"At the end of the season, you walk around the pitch and you get that feeling of 'I'm done, I'm finished'. You want to go and put your feet up and have the mental rest before the international games. You look forward to the break.

"I understand why they want to do it financially, but it shouldn't be allowed."

Robinson added: "I completely understand the commercial side of it, but the club can't then moan about the fixture schedule in the next breath.

"Not a single one of those players will want to go, but they are commercially obliged to go in their contracts."

Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

Highlights and analysis from Sunday's 10 final day Premier League fixtures.

If you missed Match of the Day, you can catch up now on BBC iPlayer.

Listen back to full match commentaries on BBC Sounds:

• Nottingham Forest 0-1 Chelsea

• Liverpool 1-1 Crystal Palace

• Wolves 1-1 Brentford

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna is set to meet with Manchester United over a possible deal for 20-year-old Argentina winger Alejandro Garnacho, who was the subject of a rejected £40m bid from the Italian champions in January. (i paper, external)

Want more transfer stories? Read Monday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Michael Emons
BBC Sport journalist at Old Trafford

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Manchester United end the Premier League season in 15th position, their lowest finish since one season in the old Second Division in 1974-75.

However, manager Ruben Amorim still retained full support from the fans when he spoke to them on the pitch, immediately after the final whistle.

He said: "First of all, I want to apologise for the season. Today after this disaster season, I want to tell you the good days are coming."

That last line received a huge cheer and United did at least end the campaign on a high note with a deserved 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, a result that denied Unai Emery's team Champions League football.

A 1-0 loss to Tottenham in Wednesday's Europa League final meant Amorim's side failed to qualify for Europe - the first time United will not have continental football since 2014-15 and only the second since 1990.

However, he gave a glimpse of what his team may look like next season and any potential transfer business in the summer after he left goalkeeper Andre Onana, left-back Luke Shaw, winger Alejandro Garnacho and forward Joshua Zirkzee out of his matchday squad.

Amorim later said he was looking forward to a full pre-season and ensuring the team did better next season. Whether he will be proved right remains to be seen.

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We asked for your thoughts on Manchester United's performance against Aston Villa, and the season as a whole.

Here are some of your comments:

Simon: Excellent performance - just shows what you can do when there's nothing to play for and you play how we know they can. We have been dreadful in many games this season. However there's also been some amazing moments throughout the season too... the never-give-up attitude has been amazing and just like Fergie times in some memorable matches. Ruben Amorim is right, good days are coming...

Nigel: A disastrous season but at least United saved a creditable performance to send the fans home happy. It's now all about who comes in and who goes out during the summer. Amorim and the board will have to be very creative in their transfer dealings.

George: This performance against a solid Villa team was by far the best since Amorim started as head coach. Controlled the game very well and lots of chances created, but need someone who can find the net. Trust Amorim!

Jonathan: This game summed up United this season. They played well, but lacked the killer instinct and really struggled to score. A lucky mistake by the ref even helped them avoid another embarrassing loss. With a decent striker maybe, just maybe they could compete at the right end of the table.

Eremi: After a season that has been more traumatic than I can recall with sub-par performances, I only hope Amorim is given the necessary support to overhaul the squad. We need hungry players who will wear that red shirt with pride and determination, not overpaid players. Let's look forward to a fresh start next season.

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Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen spoke to BBC Match of the Day after scoring in his final match for Manchester United: "On the pitch, Bruno [Fernandes] was asking if I was going to take the penalty. I said no and that I'll give it to Jonny [Evans]. But Jonny didn't want to take it.

"It was a nice gesture. Bruno is the number one and he decides. And luckily he gave it to me today. It was a good way to see it off.

"Wednesday was a big blow. To lose a final is never nice. But we showed character to bounce back and finish the season with a smile and to give something to us and the fans."

On his United career: "My time here has been really special. There has been some good moments and bad moments. I like the pressure to be able to play for a club like United. It's been a special three years."

On what is next: "The next chapter starts with a bit of a holiday and then go with the national team and then another holiday. Then we will see where we are going to play football"

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Ruben Amorim spoke to BBC Match of the Day after Sunday's victory against Aston Villa: "A Difficult week. Tough on everybody. But it was good spirits from the players and supporters today. So we finished a terrible and hard season with a win. It's a good feeling.

"We are trying. We had momentum in other games like this. In the [Europa League] final, we were clearly the strong team. But sometimes we do not score. We had so many chances today. We are improving but we have a lot more to do next season.

"It's a special club with special people. We already know that. That's why it's so hard to disappoint them when we play badly. It was a tough season, but this club is more than this and we will try to do better next season.

"We need to acknowledge it will take time. We are going to suffer a little bit more but better days are coming. We are changing things that you can't see in the results. You can't see today but they are there. It's in the culture. It's the way we behave and do things every day."

On summer transfer plans: "You know better than me that we have rules with FFP. We can't change that in this year. We need to do something in the summer. we have a plan and we are doing that in a while. We also have a preseason to improve the players we have."

Listen to Amorim on BBC Sounds