Champions League Absence Could Be Man Utd’s Hidden Advantage, Says Amorim

“So I think it’s a good thing for us to take advantage not to have European games,” added Amorim, whose phone alarm went off during the press conference ahead of Wednesday’s friendly against a Southeast Asian XI, sparking laughter among members of the media.

With limited funds available this summer to secure the right players for his preferred formation, Amorim faces a tough challenge to restore Manchester United to elite status next season.

“The target for now is to win the first game. We have a lot to do during this summer. We have to prepare the team,” he said.

“When you are Manchester United, people are going to expect us to be at the top. But we have to understand the context.

“I don’t want the team to think about a big target, just a small target by winning the first game and then to the second game,” added Amorim, who hinted he could give the fringe players a chance in their first post-season friendly.

Manchester United hopes that their upcoming friendlies in Malaysia and against Hong Kong on Friday will help boost much-needed revenue, with the BBC reporting that the trip is expected to generate around \$10 million (£7.8m) for the club.

Midfielder Mason Mount said he was excited to arrive in the steamy climate of Kuala Lumpur, despite traveling just hours after their 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday.

Fans turned out at Kuala Lumpur’s airport on Monday evening to warmly welcome the team.

“We got off the plane, there were hundreds of people waiting for us to take pictures and welcome us to the country. We’re excited to be over here and obviously looking forward to the game tomorrow,” he said.