Rio Ferdinand claims Ruben Amorim is preparing a sweeping clear-out at Manchester United as part of a bold rebuild this summer
Manchester United have endured one of their worst seasons in years, prompting Ruben Amorim and the board to plan a major summer overhaul. A significant number of players are expected to leave. Club legend Rio Ferdinand believes Amorim is determined to offload at least “50 per cent” of the current squad following their defeat to West Ham United. While Amorim’s men have impressed in Europe—crushing Athletic Bilbao 7-1 on aggregate to reach the Europa League final—they’ve struggled badly in domestic competition.
Manchester United is now sitting in 16th place after a disappointing 2-0 defeat on the road at Old Trafford. Manager Ruben Amorim said he “felt embarrassed” after the performance and the scoreline against West Ham. Tomas Soucek scored the first goal in the first half, and Jarrod Bowen finished into an empty net from a close-range pull back provided by former United player Aaron Wan-Bissaka. After the loss, Rio Ferdinand believes Amorim will be calling for a serious overhaul of the team.
Ferdinand believes a major overhaul is about to take place
On his podcast Rio Presents, Rio Ferdinand assessed Ruben Amorim’s situation at Manchester United, stating that the manager likely sees at least 50 per cent of the current squad as unfit for his long-term vision. According to Ferdinand, many players are not good enough or suitable for Amorim’s tactical approach, and a serious overhaul is essential. He believes Amorim will need a minimum of two strong transfer windows—not just to offload those who don’t fit, but also to bring in the right profile of players.
Ferdinand also emphasised that for United to turn their situation around, several things must align. Amorim is still trying to instil his philosophy, which has led to poor domestic results. To succeed, the manager must focus on recruiting dynamic, physically dominant athletes who suit his playing style, rather than flair players who lack the work rate or physical edge required in the Premier League.
The United Legend speaking on his Podcast, believes there is a need for changes
“They’re not good enough and they’re not right for the way he wants to play. I look at him and think that he needs, minimum, two good windows of getting rid of the ones he doesn’t require but also getting in players that he really needs.”
“He needs to recruit dynamic athletes. I don’t want no mavericks, or players that are frilly and can do pirouettes. No, no, people that can run past and over people as well.”
More United News
The Europa League final on Wednesday, May 21, gives Ruben Amorim a shot at salvaging the season with a trophy and securing Champions League football for next term. However, silverware alone won’t mask the deeper issues within the squad. A major rebuild is not just necessary—it’s inevitable. Amorim is expected to waste no time in pushing that agenda forward.