Rooney 'warns' Amorim about the depth of Manchester United's squad

The ex-striker Wayne Rooney considers Manchester United's current lineup unsustainable and calls on the management to promptly reinforce the squad for manager Ruben Amorim during the 2026 winter transfer period.

At present, Manchester United is competing for a top-four Premier League spot, and hopes are rising after their 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford. In this match, coach Ruben Amorim was without several key players such as Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire due to various reasons.

On the Red Devils' bench, there were as many as five academy graduates. For example, Jack Fletcher, son of former midfielder Darren Fletcher, and Tyler Fredricson were both brought on in the second half. This was Amorim’s last resort because he had no other players available to field.

Given this situation, Manchester United is planning to sign another central midfielder, with targets including Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton on their watchlist. Wayne Rooney believes the club must soon provide more options for coach Amorim so that the team can compete fairly and aim for greater ambitions.

Rooney clearly expressed his opinion as follows: "I was genuinely concerned watching that performance. That’s the truth. The coach has changed the system, switching to a back four, which many had called for. Although they kept a clean sheet, Manchester United looked uncomfortable and Newcastle kept up constant pressure, especially in the second half. Naturally, the coach had to make adjustments to ease the pressure and regain control. People criticized Amorim for substituting Casemiro, but you have to see the bigger picture.

Looking at the current squad and bench, I think they really need to add players if they want to fight for a top-four spot. I understand giving young players opportunities is positive, but timing is crucial. Right now, it’s not sustainable at all. They need more personnel. Manchester United requires true stars to bring freshness, strength, and quality to the club.”

Additionally, Rooney emphasized that personnel losses (due to injuries and AFCON) are clearly impacting Manchester United’s style of play: “They have lost many important players. Recently, Bruno Fernandes was absent. Without Bruno Fernandes, there’s a significant gap. Look at the home matches under Amorim, like the possession rate against Newcastle—only 33% at Old Trafford. Manchester United needs change; optimal personnel is essential.”