Ruben Amorim wants ‘strength’ added to clear problem position in Man Utd squad, makes concerning admission

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United were completely toothless once more against Newcastle during a 2-0 defeat.

It was the third successive game Ruben Amorim saw his side draw a blank.

Manchester United’s attacking threat was practically zero in the game, with the decision to start two defensive wing-backs looking increasingly frustrating.

It is clear that this squad desperately needs additions, with new attacking midfielders, offensive wing-backs and strikers all being linked with the club.

This level of rebuild however will not happen overnight, with Amorim needing time to fix the mess of a club he inherited.

January however is unlikely to yield the change he seeks.

• READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Man Utd’s head coach – Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim highlights attacking weaknesses

Before the game had even started on Monday night, Amorim was discussing the need for forward additions within Old Trafford.

Admitting to Sky Sports pre-game that Joshua Zirkzee is not really a striker, Amorim has now made it clear the forward line needs reinforcements.

“Because I think he’s [Zirkzee] not a clear number nine. We need strength. I think if you look at our games, our strength in front, sometimes we are too light.

“We play with the ball, but you don’t feel the real power against it. This team is really important.”

Zirkzee was hooked by Amorim in the 32nd minute which further highlighted the magnitude of transfer business this United side needs.

There is just one problem.

• READ: Who is Joshua Zirkzee? Meet the 6’4″ Man Utd signing who reminds Thiago Motta of Ronaldinho

Manchester United cannot give Amorim what he wants

After the game, Amorim’s point was even more obvious and in the press room, he was asked about January and whether he is expecting additions to the squad.

To this, Amorim’s response was clear and also concerning.

“We don’t have that possibility in January if we don’t take [sell] some players. You know the situation better than me”, Amorim told journalist Laurie Whitwell.

“It is not that I am arriving here and can spend money changing the team.”

The mess the club are in can be seen clearly in this, as hiring an elite coach and then not being able to back him in January is a ridiculous reality.

Amorim will have to hope for a big sale, with Casemiro linked with a switch to Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Marcus Rashford and now Joshua Zirkzee could also find themselves on the exit list for United.