This has been despite a period of heavy spending, with several big-money additions at Old Trafford failing to make a positive impact on the club, including the likes of £85million Antony, £60m Angel Di Maria and £73m Jadon Sancho.
Amorim also insisted he wanted to keep Kobbie Mainoo despite speculation over his future
Mail Sport reported this week how the Red Devils would be open to selling Mainoo and Garnacho if big bids come in for the two youth products this month or in the summer, given the need to meet Financial Fair Play (FFP) limitations.
Meanwhile, United have long been famous for their record in youth development, with Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo just three examples of academy graduates who have established themselves in the first team over recent years.
Despite the turbulent start, there is an acknowledgment that United will allow the Portuguese boss to build his long-term vision at the club following a difficult period in their history.
‘Our idea is always to keep the best players and to build for this club but I am really happy and like our players especially the guys from the academy.’
Amorim’s warnings are likely to be heeded by United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe (above)
‘Also, we have to improve our academy, young kids that feel the club in the right way and do some business to have money to invest in the team.
Amorim has endured a mixed record since arriving at Old Trafford from Sporting Lisbon in November, winning just four – and losing six – of his 12 games in charge.
‘I don’t remember saying clearly that I want new players,’ he said. ‘What I said is sometimes the profile for the system is different and the players came here with a different idea of playing.
And, speaking on Friday, Amorim was reluctant to say whether the unsettled star would return to the squad at Arsenal on Sunday.