Ruben Amorim has played down the chance of strengthening his squad in the ongoing January transfer window due to growing financial restrictions at the club. At a press conference on Friday ahead of the FA Cup clash with Arsenal, Amorim underlined his commitment to working with the current squad available while also addressing speculation around the potential departure of Kobbie Mainoo, who has been linked with a move away to Chelsea.
United have also been linked with several players in the window. However, Amorim clarified his stance on transfers, stating: "I don't remember saying clearly that I want new players. What I said is that sometimes the profile for this system is different, and the players come here with a different idea of how to play."
Amorim has been cautious in putting to words any potential incomings in the transfer window and this comment also highlights his focus on managing the existing squad to his tactical system usually played with 3 at the back, rather than pursuing new transfers. Manchester United’s financial position, aggravated more by Premier League Profit and Sustainability rules, could force the club to consider offers for homegrown talents who offer maximum profits in case of a sale. Selling academy graduates like Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho could provide significant financial relief. However, is this the right way to go forward where the club sells its homegrown talent to manage its books is something to be carefully studied.
ALSO READ: Manchester United to listen Offers for Young Trio
Amorim acknowledged the strange situation for the club, saying:
"Our idea is always to keep the best players and the players we build for this club, but we know the position the club is in at the moment. I really love my players, especially the talented ones from the academy. It’s a hard moment for the club."
Mainoo has been a standout performer for the club and remains central to Amorim's plans. The manager praised the young midfielder's progress but hinted financial pressures could dictate the club's decisions.
As Manchester United prepare to face Arsenal in the FA Cup third round on Sunday, Amorim reiterated his desire to field a strong team. Despite having a tough outing so far in the league and some tricky fixtures coming up against Southampton and Brighton, he highlighted the importance of progressing in the competition.
"We want to continue in the FA Cup," Amorim said. "It’s a tough match, but we want to win and improve our performance."
One confirmed change for the Arsenal clash is in goal, with Altay Bayindir set to start ahead of Andre Onana. Bayindir was criticized for his performance in the Carabao Cup loss against Tottenham but the manager is sticking with the Turkish goalie keeping in view the squad depth and rotation while maintaining a certain level of competitiveness.