Amorim gives Garnacho and Mainoo transfer latest as he admits Man Utd's grim finances

Ruben Amorim says he is determined to keep both Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho at Manchester United.

But he admits that the club may have to consider selling academy graduates to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Both players shone in United’s 2-0 Europa League win over FCSB on Thursday night, yet speculation over their futures remains.

Mainoo, 19, is expected to stay, but Chelsea and Napoli have shown interest in Garnacho, 20.

While United would be reluctant to part ways with two of their brightest young talents, the financial reality is that both players represent pure profit in accounting terms.

Selling academy products has become a common strategy for clubs looking to balance their books, and Amorim acknowledges that United may have to follow suit.

“I want players like Kobbie and Garnacho,” Amorim said. “The focus is to improve our academy and bring more [players through].

“That is something all clubs in England must take advantage of. Academy players understand the shirt, the culture—but they also provide financial flexibility if they are sold. Our focus must be to develop and nurture talent.”

Garnacho’s second-half introduction against FCSB transformed the game. The Argentine injected pace and creativity, hitting the post in a goalless match before setting up Mainoo’s goal to seal victory.

After struggling to adapt to Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, Garnacho is now thriving in a No.10 role.

His exclusion from the squad for the Manchester derby in December—alongside Marcus Rashford—seemed to be a turning point. While Rashford remains on the fringes, Garnacho has worked his way back into favor.

“I don’t think his improvement is because of me,” Amorim admitted. “He changed immediately after the City game. His attitude, recovery, and overall approach have been much better.

“He understands now that I am a demanding coach, but my only goal is to help him win. All credit goes to Garnacho. He is improving, and we want to keep improving with him.”

Mainoo’s link-up with Garnacho was a highlight of the FCSB game, with both players operating in more advanced positions.

Amorim has hinted that Mainoo’s long-term future may lie as a No.10, rather than in a deeper midfield role.

The 19-year-old has struggled defensively in central midfield, leading Amorim to adjust his role.

The head coach dismissed suggestions that uncertainty over a new contract has affected Mainoo’s performances, instead citing positional discomfort as the main factor.

“Everyone in England knows Mainoo is a top player,” Amorim said. “He played in the European Championship final.

His inconsistency is more about his position, not his contract situation.

“He was always playing before, but now he’s in and out of the team. That might have made him uncomfortable. But today, in his new role, I felt he was happier on the pitch. When players are happy, they perform better.”

With the January transfer deadline approaching, Chelsea and Napoli remain in the hunt for Garnacho.

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a bid, while Napoli could return with an improved offer if United slightly lower their asking price.

For now, United hold firm. Amorim values both Garnacho and Mainoo, believing they can be key figures in his long-term vision.

However, with financial constraints looming, the club may have to make difficult decisions before the window closes.