KUALA LUMPUR – Manchester United players ignored the Malaysian media in the mixed zone at Bukit Jalil National Stadium following their embarrassing 1-0 defeat to the Asean All Stars last night.
When approached by the local press for interviews, the Red Devils—led by head coach Rúben Amorim—turned down all requests and headed straight to the team bus.
It is customary for footballers to acknowledge and speak to the media when approached in the mixed zone.
However, judging by the players’ expressions, their refusal to engage appeared to stem from frustration after losing to a team made up largely of low-profile names with little international recognition.
Neither the club’s PR team nor the organisers of the United vs Asean All Stars match made any effort to ensure that the mixed zone was properly managed or that players were made available to speak to the press.
The players’ dismissal of the media may also explain their lack of engagement with local fans, many of whom booed the team off the pitch. The jeers came from a significant portion of the 72,550-strong crowd at Bukit Jalil.
Despite dominating 65% of possession, United managed just three shots on target.
Amorim was the only representative from United to speak to the media after the defeat, addressing reporters in a post-match press conference.
The Portuguese coach admitted that the fans’ reaction could serve as a much-needed wake-up call ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
“I always feel responsible for the team’s performances, from the very first match I took charge,” said Amorim.
“The boos might actually be something we need. Every time we lost in the Premier League, the fans were always there for us.
“I could feel their support even at the end of games — they stood by us. But now, perhaps this reaction will open our eyes. We need to be better next season.
“If the team performs, of course, the support will grow. I have no hard feelings towards the fans. Let’s see what next season brings.”
United finished 15th in the Premier League this season with just 42 points—widely regarded as the club’s worst campaign since their relegation in the 1973/74 season.
They also lost the UEFA Europa League final 1-0 to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao, missing out on a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
The ongoing Asian tour is expected to generate around $10 million (RM42 million) for the club, capping off a season in which United played 60 matches across all competitions.
United will next face Hong Kong on May 30. – May 29, 2025