Amorim admits limited transfer plans as Manchester United face tough summer

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has confirmed that the club will have limited activity in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Speaking after United’s 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final, Amorim revealed that the club is operating under a conservative recruitment plan following their failure to qualify for the Champions League.

The Portuguese manager acknowledged that the lack of Champions League football significantly affects the club’s transfer ambitions.

Amorim stated that United had prepared two separate plans, one assuming qualification and one without. Now, with only Europa League football next season, the club is leaning toward a leaner squad and a greater focus on developing current and academy players.

United’s 15th-place finish in the Premier League compounded their disappointing campaign, and the Europa League final loss only deepened the gloom. 

Despite these setbacks, the club has already made one move, agreeing a deal to sign forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Amorim hinted that departures could be a bigger theme in the coming months, with Bruno Fernandes attracting attention from Saudi Arabian clubs.

Amorim, speaking at a press conference in Malaysia, emphasized that the club is prioritizing internal development. “We don’t need a big squad without Champions League,” he said. “Our big plan is to improve the squad we have and our academy. That’s the future. We’re not allowed to do much this summer.”

Despite the challenges, Amorim remains optimistic about the team’s trajectory. “It’s important to stay together,” he added. “We’re going to have difficulties, it’s not going to be everything straight away, but I see the team improving and that’s the most important thing.” His words suggest a rebuild based on long-term growth rather than short-term splashes in the market.

Next up for Manchester United is a post-season tour in Asia, starting with a friendly against the ASEAN All-Stars in Malaysia on Wednesday, followed by a match against Hong Kong’s national team on Friday. The friendlies may provide an early glimpse into Amorim’s vision for a reshaped squad heading into the 2025-26 season.