Amorim Addresses Player Utilization and Club Challenges Ahead of Key Matches

Mainoo has only accumulated 259 minutes of play for Manchester United this season, while Zirkzee has made just five substitute appearances and hasn’t featured since the victory against Brighton in October. Their limited game time has led to speculation regarding potential January transfers, despite Amorim’s earlier assertion that “we need everyone” when asked about the possibility of the duo departing.

Amorim recently addressed inquiries about both players, expressing his desire to support them while prioritizing the club’s needs. “I was a football player,” he informed reporters. “I understand everything, and I want to assist my players in every situation. I recognize the frustration some players may feel, especially with the World Cup on the horizon. However, the club’s interests must come first. If I can support both the club and the players, I will be satisfied. If not, I must consider the team’s welfare.”

Manchester United’s transfer strategies are likely to be influenced by the club’s current injury concerns and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament. The Red Devils will lose Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui to the tournament, which means these players will miss crucial fixtures during the festive period. Additionally, Amorim is without striker Benjamin Sesko due to a knee injury, which is expected to sideline him for a month. This situation may provide Mainoo and Zirkzee with more playing opportunities in the coming weeks and will certainly be a consideration if any offers for the duo arise during the January transfer window.

Mainoo and Zirkzee are not the only players encountering challenges at Manchester United currently. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte has struggled to find his form and has faced criticism during his time at the club. Amorim, who previously coached Ugarte at Sporting, has reportedly called into question the midfielder’s work rate in front of the entire squad during a team meeting.

Amorim acknowledged that the Uruguay international is not performing at his best but remains hopeful for improvement. He remarked, “It is evident that many talented players arrive here and sometimes face difficulties. Ugarte is struggling at the moment; however, it is our responsibility to assist our players. Everything can change, as evidenced by the different environment just five weeks ago. I recognize that Ugarte is having a tough time, and my role is to help him regain the confidence he had as a Sporting player. Nevertheless, he must adapt and improve, particularly in training.”

Manchester United will return to Premier League action on Monday against Everton at Old Trafford, aiming to extend their current five-match unbeaten streak. However, Amorim approached the match with caution, despite the recent positive momentum. He stated, “I prefer not to declare that the storm has passed. It is my duty, especially at our club, to maintain a sense of urgency at all times. In the Premier League, circumstances can change rapidly, as any team is capable of winning any match.”