Amorim Stresses Club Priority Amid Player Transfer Speculation
Ruben Amorim, the manager of Manchester United, has assured young talents Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee that the club’s interests will take precedence when determining their futures, especially as the January transfer window approaches.
Both Mainoo and Zirkzee have found it challenging to secure regular playing time this season and are eager to consider transfers ahead of next summer’s World Cup. Despite their limited starts, they continue to be included in Amorim’s matchday selections.
Amorim emphasized that player departures will only be negotiated if they align with the club’s strategy. “The priority is the club, and we must focus on its needs and the team’s success before anything else,” he stated. “I understand the players’ situations; experiencing the upcoming World Cup adds pressure. However, Manchester United’s needs must come first. I aim to support both the club and the players, but if it’s not beneficial for the team, we must reconsider.”
Beyond Mainoo’s situation, United is anticipated to add at least one central midfielder in the upcoming summer transfer window. This area has posed challenges for Amorim, who heavily relies on the experience of 33-year-old Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes. The importance of Casemiro has increased due to Manuel Ugarte’s recent dip in performance.
Amorim, who is familiar with Ugarte from their time together at Sporting CP, mentioned that the Uruguayan is currently “struggling” to adapt to the Premier League environment. “It’s common for talented players to face challenges when they join this league,” Amorim commented. “Ugarte is having a tough time right now, but it’s our responsibility to assist our players. The dynamics can change quickly, as we’ve seen in the past few weeks.”
“Though Ugarte is facing difficulties, my role is to help him regain his confidence, similar to the way he performed at Sporting,” added Amorim. “Adapting to the Premier League is a different challenge, and it requires improvement, particularly in training.”
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