Wayne Rooney has criticised Ruben Amorim's lack of interest in Manchester United's academy, with the legend left disappointed by the approach while praising Michael Carrick's focus on youth
16:55, 27 Jan 2026
Wayne Rooney speaks on his podcast
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Wayne Rooney has slammed Ruben Amorim(Image: The Wayne Rooney Show)
Wayne Rooney has confessed his disappointment with Ruben Amorim's apparent disregard for the Manchester United academy.
During his 14-month stint as first-team head coach, Amorim faced criticism for seemingly straying from United's core principles of nurturing young talent, leading some to claim he didn't grasp the club's traditions.
Since the Portuguese was dismissed and replaced by club legend Michael Carrick as interim boss until season's end, many have been heartened by Carrick's interest in the youth teams, reminiscent of Sir Alex Ferguson's approach.
Ruben Amorim looks on
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Ruben Amorim didn't dip into the youth academy(Image: Getty)
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Amorim seldom tapped into the academy's talent pool, even choosing to sideline Kobbie Mainoo. In contrast, Carrick seems willing to rely on youngsters embodying the 'Manchester United DNA', having recently attended a match featuring United's U21s side.
Carrick's own son plays for the U16s, and other parents of young players believe their children now stand a better chance, given the former midfielder's deeper understanding.
This sentiment is shared by Carrick's ex-teammate Rooney, whose sons Kai and Klay also play in United's youth teams, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Michael Carrick watches Manchester United's Under-21 side with Jonathan Woodgate and Steve Holland
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Michael Carrick has already turned to the youth(Image: 2026 Manchester United FC/Getty)
The iconic striker has now voiced his frustration with Amorim's approach, while praising Carrick, who joined Rooney in the directors' box at Old Trafford to watch United defeat Derby in the FA Youth Cup on Friday.
Rooney told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It is great to see all the coaches taking a big interest in the academy. In the next few years some of those players might get an opportunity for the first team so it is important they have that interest.
"On Saturday, they were all at the Under-16s game as well before they travelled to London. It is great to see that coming back into the club.
Kai Rooney of Manchester United during the FA Youth Cup fourth round match between Manchester United and Derby County at Old Trafford on January 23, 2026 in Manchester, England.
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Kai Rooney is part of the academy(Image: Getty)
"I have been quite vocal on this. It used to be the norm but it has been missing in the last few years. With my two lads in the academy, I haven't seen that and it was a bit disappointing. The lift it gives to the players, and the players' parents, seeing the first team manager there. That is how the club should be run."
Kai, 16, emerged from the substitutes' bench for United's U18s during their 2-1 triumph over Derby last week. The moment marked the teenage striker's Old Trafford bow.
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The youngster began featuring for United's U18s this campaign at merely 15, several months ahead of his November birthday. His first appearance came as a replacement in their 1-0 victory against his dad's childhood team, Everton, at Finch Farm back in August.