Amorim Aims for Major Signings Before Summer Transfer Window

MANCHESTER, England — Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has set his sights on signing impactful players during the upcoming summer transfer window, emphasizing the need for immediate improvements to compete in the Premier League.

During a press conference ahead of the highly anticipated Manchester derby against rivals Manchester City, Amorim clarified his vision for the team’s future, stating, “I want to bring one or two big players. It’s characteristics that we don’t have in our squad, and we need to see where the gaps are.”

Amorim, who joined United in November 2024, has already brought in wing-back Patrick Dorgu and center-back Ayden Heaven during the January transfer window. However, he recognized that these signings do not fit the traditional mold of a “big signing,” typically associated with high-profile players from leading clubs.

Comparing United’s spending to that of rivals like Manchester City, who invested £178 million ($230 million) on five players in January, Amorim acknowledged the challenges they face: “Not just City but other teams, they are already in a place that we need a lot to catch them.” He added, “This is a massive club, and I want to put that pressure on myself.”

While expressing optimism about potential winter recruitments, Amorim insists that recruitment will not only focus on marquee names but also on young talent who can fill specific roles effectively. “It’s not just the big names to spend a lot of money; it’s about finding young talent, sometimes 17 years old, who don’t have space at their clubs,” he explained.

As Amorim gears up for a crucial summer, the club is focusing on player characteristics rather than their previous experience at marquee clubs. This comes in light of United’s decade-long struggle in the transfer market, leaving their squad in a weakened position. “It will take two or three summer windows to get to a better place,” co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe stated last year.

Amorim’s tactical approach utilizes a 3-4-3 formation that demands effective wing-backs—a position that has notably lacked elite players in today’s game. He reiterated this need, saying, “We need to focus on bringing players that can make significant changes to our system.”

Former players and analysts highlight that true wing-backs are rare and difficult to acquire, especially given the shift toward traditional full-backs in modern football. As clubs become wary of the so-called “United Tax,” buying players from top teams becomes increasingly challenging.

The pressure will be on Amorim and United to cultivate and develop their young prospects alongside any new talent brought in this summer. Coaches at the club are closely monitoring academy talent, hoping to discover future wing-backs from the youth ranks who can support the first team in their quest for success.

Addressing the structural and strategic issues within United, Amorim noted, “Whenever a team is trying to do this, they always have the two quickest central defenders out wide in the three.” This adaptability will be crucial as the manager aims to foster a more competitive side.

As the derby approaches, Amorim remains focused not only on securing short-term gains against City but also on laying the groundwork for a stronger future. “Next year is our goal. I’m not saying we’re going to win the title next year, but we are in a rush to be much better,” he asserted.