Rúben Amorim has signalled a potential lifeline for several sidelined Manchester United stars, declaring they will be welcomed back into the squad if transfer deals fail to meet the club’s valuation.
Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia were all left behind as United’s pre-season tour kicked off in the United States. Marcus Rashford, meanwhile, has made a move to Barcelona on loan in a move that raised eyebrows. But Amorim’s tone was clear, everyone still has a chance.
Speaking in Chicago, Amorim explained the reasoning behind the omissions. “Some players need a new challenge, some need more space in the squad,” he said. “But they are our players. If deals don’t go through, they will return.”
The manager was direct about the club’s stance. United CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox have set firm valuations. “If clubs don’t meet the numbers, we keep the players,” Amorim confirmed.
Amorim also warned potential suitors that waiting until deadline day could backfire. He added that returning players would bring healthy competition. “They’ll have to fight for places, especially if they want to be at the World Cup,” he noted.
In Chicago, Amorim has been fine-tuning preparations for United’s tour opener against West Ham in New Jersey. New signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have already linked up with the squad and made a positive impression.
Despite links to Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, Amorim is not desperate for a new No. 9. “If we start the season with this squad, I’m happy,” he said. “Everyone here wants to be here, and that matters.”
He highlighted the arrivals of Cunha and Mbeumo as evidence of the project’s appeal. “They had Champions League offers. But they still chose United. That means something to me.”
Amorim also stressed the need for chemistry in attack, namechecking Josh Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund. “We need to improve their connection. It’s about hard work now,” he concluded.
