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Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted that the club is “trying everything” to strengthen the squad before the transfer window closes but insists they will not repeat “the mistakes of the past.”
Following another disappointing home defeat—this time a 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace—Amorim’s side has now lost five of their last six Premier League home games, raising concerns over their form and squad depth.
United’s attacking struggles were highlighted once again, with only 28 goals scored in the league this season—fewer than all but Everton and the bottom three teams. Nottingham Forest’s Chris Wood has matched United’s 17 home goals this season on his own, while Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who cost a combined £100 million, were both left out of the starting lineup against Palace. Amorim opted to deploy Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine, an experiment that ultimately failed.
Rashford’s Departure and Transfer Window Uncertainty
One of United’s most notable departures is Marcus Rashford, who completed a medical at Aston Villa ahead of a loan move. Despite being just two goals away from becoming United’s joint-top scorer this season, the 27-year-old has not played since December 12.
Asked about Rashford potentially thriving at Villa while United struggle, Amorim dismissed any concerns.
“Humiliating? It’s not embarrassing,” he said. “When you loan a player, you expect him to play and improve. There is nothing humiliating about that.”
With the transfer deadline approaching, speculation continues about further additions to the squad. Deals for Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku are considered unlikely, but United has already secured Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu for £25 million and Arsenal youngster Ayden Heaven.
“We are trying everything to improve the team without making the mistakes of the past and also trying to balance the urgency of the moment,” Amorim said. “This market is really hard on clubs. I want to improve the team so badly. I know what the team needs. Sometimes it’s possible, sometimes it’s not.”
Concerns Over United’s Transfer Strategy
Despite their transfer activity, United’s ability to operate in the market remains under scrutiny. The club’s financial position is reportedly tight due to concerns over Profit and Sustainability rules. Recent high-profile signings such as Antony—who joined Ajax for £81.3 million and has now been loaned to Real Betis—have failed to justify their price tags. Tyrell Malacia, signed for £13 million in 2022, is also set to leave.
United’s struggles under Amorim are now statistically worse than previous managers. The Portuguese coach has already lost more league games at Old Trafford (five) than José Mourinho did in two and a half years (four) and is level with Louis van Gaal’s total in two seasons.
As the transfer deadline approaches, United fans will be hoping for reinforcements to rescue what has been a disappointing campaign so far.