Ruben Amorim: 'Some players will leave Manchester United in two months'

Ruben Amorim is ready for many Manchester United players to seek exits in the January transfer period, yet he stresses that those sidelined should emulate Casemiro to reclaim their positions.

Coach Ruben Amorim admits he faces the risk of losing some players due to dissatisfaction in the locker room, especially since Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee are currently unhappy with their situations. Mainoo had his loan request rejected before the summer transfer window closed and since then has only appeared in the loss at the Carabao Cup against Grimsby. Meanwhile, Zirkzee, who was expected to break out after joining, has only made five substitute appearances this season.

Both players are eager to play in order to keep their chances for the upcoming World Cup, which makes them even more impatient. Amorim understands this pressure: “I don’t know what will happen in January. Some players who aren’t playing will want to leave, especially since they need to maintain form for the World Cup. I have to be mentally prepared for that.”

The Portuguese strategist said the coaching staff is still planning to strengthen the squad in the winter transfer window, but emphasized that he only wants to bring in “players who can commit long-term to Manchester United, not short-term signings to just patch holes.” He affirmed: “We want to improve the team, but in a stable and sustainable way.”

Amorim believes that playing in European competitions this season will make squad rotation easier, providing opportunities for less-used players. “If we have more matches, managing things will be simpler. Someone like Mainoo will get more chances to prove himself, because you can’t rely on a fixed lineup throughout the entire season.”

To reassure his discouraged players, Amorim cites Casemiro as a prime example. Once dropped from the starting lineup and seemingly finished at Old Trafford, the Brazilian midfielder worked hard, stayed patient, and fought his way back into the first team. “Casemiro proves that anyone can return if they are willing to fight. I always tell players that everyone has a chance as long as they follow the team’s common principles.”

He also stressed that United is undergoing a long-term rebuilding process, and every individual needs to feel part of that journey. “I want them to understand that we’re not just fighting for today, but for Manchester United’s future. Those who are patient and dedicated will be rewarded.”

Ruben Amorim’s message is clear: he is ready to let go of those unwilling to commit, but for those who stay, they must have the fighting spirit like Casemiro — once doubted, now back to prove the true quality of a top star.

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