Ruben Amorim has said Manchester United’s academy can play a big role in helping rebuild the club.
Man United are facing up to the harsh reality of a disappointing 2024/25 campaign. Despite Amorim’s arrival last November, there was to be no ‘new manager’ bounce in the Premier League.
As a result, ahead of the Europa League final against Tottenham, any hope of qualifying for Europe via their league position had been ruled out and that placed greater emphasis on the showdown in Bilbao.
However, a 1-0 loss at San Mames not only denied Man Utd a trophy but also a route into next season’s Champions League.
With a massive summer on the horizon, Amorim has revealed the club will turn to plan b.
"We always prepare two plans," he said ahead of United’s post-season tour friendly against ASEAN All-Stars. "With and without the Champions League. Without the Champions League, we also don't need a big squad.
"We can control the squad in a better way. Then we have a plan, that is to bring in some new players, but our big plan is to improve the team we have, to improve the Academy.
"It was the past, so it can be the future. It can't change much because of Financial Fair Play, we are not allowed to do much, even with the Champions League, so we are prepared. It's important to stick together.
“We are going to struggle, it's not going to be everything right away, but I can see the team improving and that's the most important thing."
United’s faith in youth has been further demonstrated by an announcement following the final day win over Aston Villa that experienced trio Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans and Christian Eriksen will leave the club at the end of the season.
