"It’s been a tough game in a tough moment" - Ruben Amorim reacts after Manchester United's loss to Nottingham Forest

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has shared his thoughts following a disappointing 3-2 Premier League loss to Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Saturday, December 7. The defeat leaves the Red Devils languishing in 13th place, eight points adrift of the coveted Champions League spots.

The match began disastrously for United as Nikola Milenkovic capitalized on early defensive lapses to put Forest ahead in the second minute. Despite a spirited response that saw Rasmus Hojlund restore parity in the 18th minute, United faltered again after the interval.

An error from goalkeeper Andre Onana allowed Morgan Gibbs-White to reclaim the visitors' lead in the 47th minute.

The situation worsened when Chris Wood capitalized on defensive miscommunication between Onana, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martinez and headed in Forest’s third goal in the 54th minute.

Although Bruno Fernandes pulled one back with a thunderous strike to make it 3-2 in the 61st minute, Manchester United’s late surge for an equalizer fell short.

It marked another frustrating evening for the home fans, who watched their team’s defensive frailties overshadow promising spells of attacking play.

Addressing the media after the game, Amorim acknowledged his side's challenges but struck a determined tone about the road ahead. He said (via Fabrizio Romano):

"It’s been a tough game in a tough moment, but we have to continue the job. This is a long journey. We are improving in some aspects. We have to win games to help us improve the team."

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Manchester United will take on a bleak-looking Manchester City side in their next Premier League game

With eight points separating Manchester United from the Champions League places, the pressure is mounting on Amorim and his players to deliver results.

Things won’t get easier anytime soon as Manchester United prepare for their next Premier League challenge — a daunting trip to face cross-town rivals Manchester City on December 15.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as Amorim’s men look to turn their season around against one of the league’s most formidable teams. However, the Cityzens have been far from their best and have won just one of their last nine games across competitions. Their most recent clash against Crystal Palace ended in a 2-2 draw.

While Pep Guardiola's side managed to avoid a defeat, Manchester United may be able to capitalise on City's tumultuous time to return to winning ways.