'Give them time' - Neville backs Ratcliffe and Amorim amid Man United's transition
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes it's too early to judge Sir Jim Ratcliffe's ownership and manager Ruben Amorim, citing the need for time to embed significant changes.
Neville thinks the club's dire state upon Ratcliffe's arrival warrants a longer evaluation period.
"It's such a big club, there is such a lot to do and there was so much wrong with it when he came in," Neville said.
"I think he has got to be given some time to be able to develop a successful football club again." Neville estimates it typically requires three to four years to build new foundations.
Neville acknowledges some unpopular decisions but believes many changes were necessary.
"When you're going into a club that basically has had sustained failure for 10 years and has recruited badly, you're going to upset things along the way."
He also thinks Amorim needs time to build a successful team, emphasizing the need for stability and a proper pre-season.
"I think this time next year we'll know a lot more, when we see whether Ruben can build a successful team," Neville said.
He estimates Amorim will need at least five or six new players to change the team's direction, including two forwards, a central midfield player, two wing-backs, and another centre-back.
As United prepares for the Europa League final against Tottenham, Neville's excitement is palpable.
"That game is making my stomach churn with its level of importance... It's making me a little bit sick."
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both clubs vying for silverware and financial benefits.
