New Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has taken a firm stance on the club’s transfer policy, making it clear that he wants the final word on player signings. Speaking during his first pre-match press conference on Friday, the Portuguese tactician outlined his vision for shaping the team and stressed the importance of aligning recruitment with his preferred playing style.
The press conference, held ahead of Manchester United’s trip to Ipswich Town on Sunday, provided insight into Amorim’s ambitions as he attempts to reverse the club’s worst-ever start to a Premier League season.
The former Sporting Lisbon coach faces significant challenges in re-establishing United as a competitive force, but his comments have already sparked debate about the balance of power at Old Trafford under the new INEOS-led ownership.
Amorim’s appointment follows the sacking of Erik ten Hag, who had held both the title and responsibilities of manager, wielding considerable influence over transfer decisions. In contrast, Amorim’s role as head coach reflects a structural overhaul at the club under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS.
With the additions of technical director Jason Wilcox and sporting director Dan Ashworth, Manchester United’s recruitment strategy has shifted to a more collaborative model, reducing the coach’s authority in player signings. Amorim’s current contract notably lacks a veto on transfers, leaving some questions about his ability to shape the squad according to his tactical philosophy.
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While Amorim was always expected to have input on transfers, his diminished contractual authority has raised concerns over his involvement in decisions that could directly impact the team’s performance. Despite this, the coach appears determined to assert his influence over the recruitment process.
During Friday’s press conference, Amorim emphasized that the head coach’s perspective should be central to recruitment decisions. “We have to improve the process of recruitment,” he stated. “I want to have a strong position on that because of how I want to play. It should be a collaborative process, but the manager should get the final say.”
Amorim also highlighted the responsibility that comes with selecting players, explaining that recruitment decisions directly impact the team’s ability to execute his preferred 3-4-3 system. “When everything is aligned, we can buy and sell players. I have a great responsibility when we choose players because that is something that should be done in this way. I should be able to choose the players.”
This approach underscores Amorim’s intent to build a squad capable of delivering results while staying true to his tactical identity. His system, which relies on high-intensity pressing, fluid transitions, and wide attacking play, demands specific player profiles that may not align with a recruitment team’s general priorities.
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Amorim’s tenure begins amidst heightened scrutiny following Manchester United’s dismal start to the season. The team sits perilously low in the Premier League standings, and their struggles have only intensified speculation about necessary squad reinforcements.
The challenge is compounded by the restructuring of United’s hierarchy, which seeks to modernize the club’s operations but risks creating friction between the coach and the recruitment team. INEOS’s investment marks a clear departure from the centralized decision-making of the past, placing greater emphasis on collaboration and data-driven strategies.
However, Amorim’s insistence on having the final say suggests he believes the head coach must retain ultimate authority to ensure success on the pitch. His comments may also signal a broader desire for clarity regarding the division of responsibilities between himself, the technical director, and the sporting director.
As Manchester United prepare to face Ipswich Town, all eyes will be on Amorim to see how he handles his first major test. While the immediate focus is on securing points, the long-term implications of his stance on recruitment could shape the trajectory of his tenure.
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Amorim’s success will likely depend on his ability to navigate the complexities of United’s new hierarchy while maintaining a clear vision for the team’s development. With high expectations from fans and stakeholders, the Portuguese coach’s demand for greater influence in transfer decisions may prove pivotal in restoring Manchester United’s competitive edge.
As the January transfer window approaches, the spotlight will remain on Amorim’s relationship with the club’s recruitment team. Can the new head coach strike the right balance of collaboration and authority to bring success back to Old Trafford? Only time will tell.