Manchester United plan to keep Ruben Amorim as head coach next season, regardless of the outcome in the Europa League final against Tottenham. Despite enduring one of the worst league campaigns in their modern history, the club’s hierarchy remains confident in the Portuguese manager’s long-term vision and intends to give him the summer transfer window to reshape the squad in line with his tactical philosophy.
United currently sit 16th in the Premier League table, having lost 17 games—an alarming figure that marks their worst domestic showing since the 1973-74 season. Amorim took over from Erik ten Hag in November, but his arrival has not sparked the expected turnaround. United have already crashed out of both the FA Cup and the League Cup, suffering defeats to Fulham and Tottenham, respectively.
The Europa League has been the one bright spot in an otherwise dismal season. Victory in the final in Bilbao on May 21 would not only bring a trophy but also secure a place in next season’s Champions League. However, recent performances suggest morale is low. A 2-0 home loss to West Ham last weekend left Amorim visibly frustrated, raising questions about whether he would continue if results don’t improve.
Speaking after the match, Amorim hinted at a broader cultural issue within the team, acknowledging that changes are necessary to prevent a repeat of this season’s struggles. He emphasized the need for a stronger mentality and a bold approach in the upcoming transfer window. He warned that the team currently lacks the fear of losing that traditionally drives successful clubs—a mindset he views as deeply concerning.
To address the deficiencies in the squad, Amorim has identified two primary transfer targets: Wolves forward Matheus Cunha and Ipswich striker Liam Delap. The manager views both players as central to his tactical rebuild. However, acquiring them will require significant financial outlay, with Cunha’s release clause set at £62.5 million and Delap’s at £30 million. As a result, United will need to sell several players to fund these purchases.
A major departure this summer is expected to be Marcus Rashford. The England international is currently on loan at Aston Villa, who hold a £40 million option to make the deal permanent. However, United may seek a higher transfer fee from other potential suitors if interest materializes elsewhere.
In addition to Rashford, several other high-profile players could be moved on to boost the transfer budget. Jadon Sancho, who has struggled to justify his transfer fee since arriving from Borussia Dortmund, is among those likely to leave. Antony, another winger yet to consistently perform, is also considered expendable. Casemiro, who has battled injuries and a decline in form, and Rasmus Højlund, whose impact has been limited, are other names on the list of potential exits.
Despite the bleak current outlook, the club remains committed to Amorim’s vision. They believe that with the right support in the transfer market and a reshaped squad, he can instill a winning mentality and steer the team back to competitive relevance next season. The upcoming summer will be crucial, both in terms of recruitment and shifting the culture that has contributed to a historically poor campaign.
