Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has stated that the club will not require a large squad for the upcoming season following their failure to qualify for the Champions League. Speaking during the club's post-season Asia tour in Kuala Lumpur, where United travelled with a 32-man squad featuring first-team players like Casemiro, Alejandro Garnacho, and Bruno Fernandes, along with several academy prospects, Amorim outlined his plans. The tour includes friendlies against ASEAN All-Stars and Hong Kong.

Amorim explained that the club always prepares two strategic plans: one with Champions League participation and one without. "Without the Champions League, we also don’t need a big squad," he commented, adding, "We can control the squad in a better way." This situation, coupled with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, means that Manchester United will have limited leeway for extensive summer signings. "We have financial fair play rules, so we are not allowed to do so much this summer," Amorim confirmed, noting that this would be the case even if they had qualified for the Champions League.

Despite these constraints, some new additions are being considered. Matheus Cunha is reportedly a target, with United potentially triggering his £62.5m release clause with Wolves. The club is also believed to be interested in Ipswich striker Liam Delap, who has a £30m release clause. However, Amorim emphasized that the primary focus is on internal development. "Our big plan is to improve the team we have, to improve the academy," he stated.

The emphasis on youth development provides opportunities for academy players, with Amorim highlighting individuals like Ayden Heaven, who has impressed when given chances. "It's a good opportunity to see the young players and sometimes we have surprises like Ayden [Heaven], who every time he has played, has proved that he's a first-team player,” Amorim remarked.

Regarding departures, Amorim suggested that the smaller squad size might mean not all departing players will be replaced. Key figures such as Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans, and Christian Eriksen are out of contract. Additionally, the club is expected to try and sell Marcus Rashford upon his return from a loan at Aston Villa. Decisions are also pending on Jadon Sancho, with Chelsea potentially buying him or facing a £5m penalty to return him, and Antony, who has also been out on loan and could be available for transfer.

Amorim stressed the importance of unity and patience as the team undergoes this period of adjustment. "It’s important to stick together. We’re 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," he conveyed, expressing confidence in the team's upward trajectory.

A significant part of Amorim's plan involves retaining key personnel, most notably club captain Bruno Fernandes. Amidst reported interest from Saudi Pro-League club Al-Hilal, Amorim reiterated his desire to keep the Portuguese midfielder. "You can see by the performance. You can see by the leadership. You can see the passion he has for the game," Amorim said of Fernandes. "In difficult moments Bruno is the guy who takes responsibility. He should do because he is the captain. He is really important for us and what we want to build for the team."