Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has revealed a profound shift in the club’s transfer strategy, implementing a new ‘rule’ set to be ‘massive’ in guiding their player recruitment. This innovative approach moves beyond mere on-field ability, prioritizing elements deemed crucial for sustained success and a cohesive team environment at Old Trafford.

Following a season that saw the Red Devils record their lowest ever Premier League points tally, the club has signaled a clear intent to overhaul their squad dynamics. Despite significant summer investments, including the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha, the emphasis is now firmly on deeper, less tangible qualities that contribute to a winning culture.

This new philosophy marks a departure from previous transfer pursuits, such as the club’s interest in Viktor Gyokeres. Instead, Manchester United are now placing a greater importance on a player’s inherent ‘character’ and the overall ‘culture’ they bring to the dressing room, a direct response to past transfer missteps.

Amorim articulated this shift in a comprehensive interview with United’s in-house media team, stating, ‘It’s a key point in our way of doing things now. It’s not just how they play.’ This highlights a move towards a holistic evaluation process, where personal attributes are as vital as professional skills.

The Portuguese tactician emphasized a discernible change in the dressing room’s ‘culture,’ with the squad collectively striving to overcome the struggles of the previous campaign. ‘I think that is clear. That’s something not just the coaches, the manager and the players can change, everyone can. And I think everyone is changing at our club,’ he noted, underscoring a club-wide commitment to improvement.

While acknowledging the sensitivity of critiquing past periods, Amorim believes the current setup is ‘more organised,’ with new personnel contributing significantly to this enhanced structure. This strategic reorganisation aims to streamline operations and ensure greater efficiency in all aspects, including talent identification and integration.

Matheus Cunha serves as a prime example of this new recruitment ethos. Amorim praised the Brazilian forward’s immediate positive impression and his certain ‘characteristics’ that the squad ‘missed’ last term. Cunha’s attitude in training and his overall contribution are seen as validations of the club’s evolving criteria.

The positive impact of this new philosophy is already evident on the pitch, with Manchester United remaining undefeated in pre-season. Their strong performances against teams like Leeds United, West Ham, and Bournemouth in the Premier League Summer Series suggest that the renewed focus on character and collective spirit is beginning to yield tangible results for the Red Devils.