Ruben Amorim has already made an impression on his new squad after taking over as Manchester United’s head coach, and his first comments about the players have raised a few eyebrows. The Portuguese manager, who joined from Sporting Clube de Portugal following Erik ten Hag’s departure, had his first training session with some of the injured and unselected players during the international break.

Amorim, 39, known for his tactical innovation and success in Portugal, has a reputation for demanding intensity and commitment from his players. But his recent comments about Manchester United’s squad have been unexpected.

Ruben Amorim has met with some of his new Manchester United players at Carrington already

The new boss shared an embrace with Mason Mount with the former Chelsea midfielder not called up to the England squad

Kobbie Mainoo was another of the Red Devils’ stars not away on international duty this week

“These players are incredibly talented, but what surprised me the most is how much potential they have to grow,” Amorim stated after the session. “I was expecting more experienced players, but I see a group of men ready to evolve. They are full of raw talent and energy, but they need direction and discipline to reach their maximum potential.”

The new United boss was seen embracing some of the squad members, including England internationals Luke Shaw and Mason Mount, as well as academy starlet Toby Collyer. Amorim’s warm reception of players like Kobbie Mainoo, who is recovering from injury, suggests he is keen to foster strong relationships early on.

Academy starley Toby Collyer was also given an arm round the shoulder from his new boss

Leny Yoro is only just returned from injury and as such was not called up to the France squad

Amorim’s comments are seen as a signal that while he respects the abilities of his new team, he believes there is still a lot of room for improvement. His tactical shift from the previous 4-2-3-1 formation to a 3-4-3 system will offer new opportunities for some players who were not regulars under Ten Hag, but it also means certain squad members may find themselves sidelined.

“Many players will be given new roles,” Amorim explained. “It’s important they are adaptable and embrace new challenges. If they do, we will see a much stronger Manchester United.”

Amorim’s approach could mean significant changes at Old Trafford, and United fans will be eager to see how his methods impact the team’s performance when they return from the international break. With the likes of Shaw, Mount, and the younger talents all eager to prove themselves, it promises to be an exciting chapter in the club’s history.