MAN UNITED BOSS RUBEN AMORIM HEATED CALLING WOLVES “RUTHLESS CLUB” AND EXPLAINING WHY HE GHOSTED ROB EDWARDS’ HANDSHAKE DESPITE 1–4 EPL VICTORY AT MOLINEUX-STADIUM

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim delivered a surprisingly fiery post-match press conference despite watching his side secure an emphatic 4–1 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux. In a night that should have been dominated by praise for United’s attacking brilliance, the spotlight quickly shifted to Amorim’s decision to snub Wolves head coach Rob Edwards at full time, and to his accusation that Wolves had behaved like a “ruthless club” throughout the match.

United’s victory was one of their most convincing away performances of the season a display marked by intensity, clinical finishing and tactical discipline. But Amorim’s frustration, visible from the moment the final whistle blew, provided a dramatic subplot that overshadowed the celebrations.

Amorim: “Wolves were ruthless and not in a good way”

When asked to explain his “ruthless club” comment, Amorim made it clear that the issue had nothing to do with Wolves’ playing style and everything to do with what he described as “unnecessary and disrespectful behaviour” from their bench.

“Wolves were ruthless tonight but I’m not talking about football,” he said. “There were things said on the touchline, things done off the ball, and a level of hostility that I didn’t think was appropriate. They are a strong team, yes, but there are limits. For me, those limits were crossed.”

The Portuguese coach described the environment in the technical area as “chaotic” and “provocative,” emphasising that he did not feel a handshake would have been sincere.

“I don’t believe in shaking hands just because cameras are watching,” he added. “Respect works both ways.”

Sources inside the stadium said tensions began midway through the first half when Wolves’ staff reacted angrily to a challenge near their technical area. The heated exchanges continued throughout the match, with fourth officials frequently intervening.

United dominate despite heated atmosphere

The on-field performance told a different story one of control, confidence and ruthlessness from Manchester United. Amorim’s side took the lead early, doubled it before halftime, and punished Wolves’ defensive mistakes with sharp counter-attacking play.

United’s midfield trio dictated the rhythm, while the front line operated with precision rarely seen in recent weeks. The visitors pressed aggressively, overturned possession quickly, and showed composure in front of goal.

Amorim praised his players for maintaining focus under pressure:

“I am proud of the team. In a difficult environment, with a lot happening around the pitch, they stayed calm, stayed organised and showed their quality. We controlled the game from start to finish.”

United’s fourth goal a sweeping team move finished in style drew applause even from neutral spectators inside Molineux.

The handshake snub: Amorim stands firm

But the moment the final whistle sounded, the drama shifted away from football. Rob Edwards walked toward Amorim with an extended hand. Amorim glanced briefly in his direction but turned immediately toward the tunnel, leaving Edwards standing alone.

Asked whether he regretted the gesture, Amorim was firm.

“No. I walked away because it was the right thing in that moment. I will not pretend everything was fine. If the atmosphere had been respectful, I would have been the first to shake hands.”

He added:

“When you feel there are attempts to provoke you all game, the best response is to stay calm and walk away.”

Rob Edwards declined to escalate the issue, telling BBC Sport he was “focused on Wolves’ performance” and that “these things happen in football.”

Victory brings relief but not calm

The result provides much-needed momentum for Manchester United, who have struggled with inconsistency this season. A dominant away performance, combined with Amorim’s bold tactical setup, will give supporters renewed optimism.

Yet the post-match tension has sparked debate among pundits and fans about Amorim’s temperament and the managerial rivalry brewing beneath the surface.

Some former players suggested Amorim’s behaviour showed passion and authenticity. Others argued that the United boss should have prioritised professionalism, especially after a commanding win.

Amorim, however, dismissed any suggestion that he had overreacted.

“I’m human,” he said. “You can win a match and still feel something was not right. What matters is how you carry yourself and for me, walking away was the respectful choice.”

A statement win overshadowed by touchline fire

On a night where Manchester United produced one of their most complete performances of the campaign, the football should have been the headline. Instead, Amorim’s refusal to shake hands and his “ruthless club” comment dominated discussion.

Yet if his players were affected by the noise, they didn’t show it. United looked sharper, hungrier and far more organised than in recent weeks. The victory places them firmly back in the battle for European positions, and Amorim insists they will build on this momentum.

“The performance today is the real story,” he said. “We were strong, connected, disciplined. That is the Manchester United we are building.”

But inevitably, the final question returned to the handshake. Amorim’s answer was short and telling.

“Respect must go both ways,” he said. “Tonight, it didn’t.”