The rule has been in place since last year, introduced after Marcus Rashford and Casemiro travelled to the US during the November window despite not being called up. Their decision sparked heavy criticism including from former United captain Gary Neville and highlighted the lack of clear internal guidelines at the time.

Amorim, who had only recently taken charge when the controversy erupted, initially defended the pair and stressed that the club had not prohibited such trips. But he made clear that new standards were needed, promising a more controlled structure around rest and recovery during international periods.

Those policies remain active a year later, and the players not involved in national-team duty have stayed at Carrington throughout the break.

United currently have 15 senior players away with their countries, leaving a working group of 11 behind. Benjamin Šeško, who withdrew from Slovenia duty with a knee issue, headlines the list alongside England representatives Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo and Tom Heaton. Dutch duo Tyrell Malacia and Joshua Zirkzee are also training in Manchester, as are academy hopefuls Ayden Heaven, Tyler Fredricson and Chido Obi.

The squad returns to Premier League action on Monday when they host Everton, following a dramatic 2–2 draw at Tottenham earlier this month sealed by a 96th-minute Matthijs de Ligt equaliser. After that match, Amorim criticised his players for easing off in the second half, insisting United must show greater courage to finish games rather than allowing opponents back into contests.

With the break nearing its end, Amorim is determined to maintain discipline, focus and fitness levels and his no-travel rule appears firmly established as part of the club’s new culture.