Amorim advises Manchester United's rising star to stay and wait for his chance, calling him the future! But confirms plans to buy players next year.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim painted a promising picture for 20-year-old academy star Kobe Meno, saying he represents the club's future but may need patience to prove himself. This season, Meno has appeared 12 times for United but only started once—in the League Cup against League Two's Grimsby—while he has been a substitute in all Premier League matches.

Last Sunday against Aston Villa, Casemiro was suspended after accumulating five yellow cards, but Meno suffered a calf injury during pre-match training and again missed the starting lineup. In response, Amorim urged Meno to think long-term, suggesting he could get more opportunities in the future.

“Meno will get the chance he has always had. He has played various positions: he can be a defensive midfielder, and if we play three midfielders, he has an opportunity. He can also fill in for Mason Mount like he did in the last match,” Amorim added. “I feel he is Manchester United’s future; he just needs to wait for his chance. Anything can happen on the pitch—it could change within two days.”

Amorim, who has consistently used the 3-4-3 formation, hinted that he might consider other tactics. “If we want to play the 3-4-3 perfectly, it requires a lot of money and time. I’m beginning to realize that might not happen, so I may have to adapt.”

Amorim implied that Meno will not be loaned out in the January transfer window but admitted Manchester United will bring in new midfielders. If United signs expensive midfielders, Meno might only be seen as “a future backup” in the 3-4-3 setup. The manager said, “If we don’t find replacements, current players will find it hard to leave. Even with a full squad, we don’t have enough players, so without guaranteed replacements, players won't depart the club.”

Besides Meno, veteran players Casemiro and Maguire may also leave next year as their contracts enter their final six months. The 33-year-old Casemiro has a one-year extension option, but due to his current weekly wage of £350,000, the club is unlikely to activate it.

Amorim stated the club has yet to decide whether to renew contracts for Maguire and Casemiro. “No decision has been made yet,” he said. “We have many tasks and need to understand what will happen next season. We know the approach differs if we qualify for European competitions. Right now, we have a lot to do and no time to think about these things. I’m satisfied with both, but I don’t know what the future holds.”

The Manchester United manager insisted that he would not be disappointed if no new signings arrive next month and said he will strive for the “best possible lineup.” Amorim said, “I won’t be discouraged. Of course, we are facing challenges, but the club already has plans, and we will stick to them.”

Amorim concluded, “I believe if the club has a chance to bring in a player we see as representing the club’s future, he will come. If not, we will wait until summer. We still have Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey. In three weeks, Amad Diallo, Mazraoui, and Mbemo will return, and Bruno Fernandes and Meno will also be back. Let’s wait and see.”

Regarding whether Manchester United can finish in the Premier League’s top four this season and return to the Champions League, Amorim refused to guarantee it. “No, I think it’s hard to say. I can only say Manchester United has the potential to do better. I can work with the team to achieve more and help them improve, that’s certain. But competing for the top four is different at our club; it’s not just about talent. The team has greater potential. I can only say that if the squad is complete, I can help them play better. I feel we have a brighter future.”