Ruben Amorim considers academy players due to Man Utd's financial constraints

Speaking at a press conference in Malaysia ahead of Wednesday's friendly against the ASEAN All-Stars, Amorim stressed the importance of building for the 2025/26 campaign by blending promising young talent with experienced professionals.

The Portuguese manager paid tribute to the historical influence of United's famed youth systems, referencing the legendary Busby Babes and the Class of '92 as cornerstones of the club's identity.

The upcoming friendly will feature a mix of teenagers and senior players, providing Amorim an opportunity to assess potential contributors for the upcoming season.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on both the Europa League trophy and Champions League qualification, the manager remains optimistic.

"We always prepare two plans," said Amorim. "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."