AFCON 2025
Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim believes that missing out on Champions League football next season could ultimately benefit the club’s rebuilding efforts.
Following a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, where United finished 15th in the Premier League, their worst league performance since 1974, and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur, Amorim is focusing on the positives of a lighter schedule.
“I have to say that for us not to be in the Champions League could be an advantage to perform better, to prepare better for games, to build that core that we need for the future. So I think it’s a good thing for us to take advantage not to have European games,” Amorim stated during United’s post-season tour in Asia.
Amorim emphasized that without the demands of midweek European fixtures, the team can concentrate on optimizing the existing squad and nurturing academy talent.
“The target for now is to win the first game. We have a lot to do during this summer. We have to prepare the team,” he said.
“When you are Manchester United, people are going to expect us to be at the top. But we have to understand the context. I don’t want the team to think about a big target, just a small target by winning the first game and then to the second game.”
Despite financial constraints due to Financial Fair Play rules and the absence of Champions League revenue, Amorim remains focused on improving the current team.
The club’s tour, which includes matches in Malaysia and Hong Kong, is expected to generate £8 million in sponsorship revenue, helping offset financial setbacks.
Looking ahead, Amorim is preparing for a summer squad overhaul, with potential signings including Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.
He has also stressed the importance of retaining club captain Bruno Fernandes, amid transfer interest from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, viewing the 30-year-old’s leadership as crucial to the team’s rebuilding efforts.
