Ruben Amorim Hints at Possible Reintegration of Manchester United Excluded Stars

In what appears to be a potential turning point at Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has suggested that players currently sidelined from the first-team setup — including Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia — could be given a path back into the squad if circumstances change.
Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag earlier in the summer of 2025, has been working to reshape the squad amid both internal disciplinary concerns and tactical adjustments. The Portuguese tactician, widely respected for his work with Sporting CP before making the switch to the Premier League, has not ruled out the possibility of reintegrating the quartet, though he insists that the decision will be based on professional conduct, training attitude, and team needs.
Garnacho and Antony, both wingers with immense potential but inconsistent performances, have reportedly been training away from the main group for weeks. Their exclusion raised eyebrows among supporters, especially given Garnacho’s strong end to the 2023/24 season, where he contributed vital goals and assists in United’s push for European qualification. Meanwhile, Antony has struggled to find his form since his £85 million move from Ajax, with off-field distractions and underwhelming displays affecting his standing within the team.
Jadon Sancho’s situation remains one of the more complicated cases. The English winger, who arrived from Borussia Dortmund with high expectations in 2021, has endured a turbulent spell at Old Trafford, marred by injuries, reported fallouts with coaching staff, and a dip in form. After being frozen out under Ten Hag for disciplinary reasons, it was expected that a managerial change might offer a clean slate. However, Amorim appears to be maintaining a firm stance, reiterating that Sancho’s return would depend solely on merit and behavior, not reputation.
Left-back Tyrell Malacia, though less in the headlines, has also been training separately. The Dutch international, who missed much of the 2023/24 season due to injury, is believed to be working his way back to full fitness. Amorim’s remarks suggest that once Malacia reaches peak condition and proves his readiness, he could also find his way back into first-team contention.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Amorim said: “In football, nothing is permanent. Every player has a chance, but it depends on how they approach their responsibilities. We are building a competitive team, and everyone must show they want to be part of it — not just with words, but with actions.”
Sources close to the club have indicated that Amorim is trying to instill a culture of discipline, accountability, and collective unity — key elements that were reportedly lacking in recent seasons. While United fans may be divided over the exclusions, many believe the hardline approach could be what the dressing room needs to turn things around after years of underachievement.
With the Premier League season now underway and United aiming to re-establish themselves as title contenders, the door may not be fully closed for Garnacho, Antony, Sancho, and Malacia — but they must first prove that they are willing to meet the standards set by the new regime. Whether they take that opportunity remains to be seen.