Coach Ruben Amorim had a full summer of training for the first time with the Manchester United squad. And he hopes this will bring success in the new season.
The Portuguese captain has deployed his strong three-man defensive formation and added names like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to the squad.
Benjamin Sesko is the next name, as the Slovenia striker chose Man United over opponent Newcastle. Although profit and sustainability regulations may limit spending ability, the departure of some famous players still helps the "Red Devils" free up the salary fund and create more financial space for new deals.
Marcus Rashford's salary has been taken off the books after he moved to Barcelona on loan. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho is expected to join Juventus, with the Turin club able to push some players away to create its own transfer budget.
Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund are among the other names that could be sold if they receive a suitable price, although Harry Maguire is likely to continue at Old Trafford.
In addition to upgrading the attack, Man United is also looking for an addition to the midfield with the target of Carlos Baleba. However, the Brighton star could cost them up to £100 million - a figure that is not small this summer.
However, if Man United completes both of the two big deals mentioned above, Amorim will have to face a difficult problem: how to get all the talented players on the field in a balanced and effective squad.
Goalkeeper and defender
Despite a disappointing end to last season, Man United have actually conceded fewer goals than the two teams above them, Brentford and Brighton, and are only 3 goals ahead of the sixth-placed Aston Villa.
Perhaps that is why Amorim decided not to make major changes to the defense. Instead, he has maintained stability and confidence in the current defensive system.
Andre Onana is still the number 1 choice in the "Red Devils" goal, despite some serious mistakes last season. He will receive important support from Lisandro Martinez after a long-term injury.
This is a big loss that Man United suffered in the final period of last season. However, it is still unclear whether the Argentine centre-back can return to the Premier League soon.
Midfielders (including wingers)
While Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are still reliable options, Man United's strongest squad will probably prioritize the more attacking duo: Amad Diallo and Patrick Dorgu. These are all players who possess speed, penetration ability and support attacks along both sides.
In the center of midfield, new quality contracts are expected to help captain Bruno Fernandes play lower, playing a role in regulating the game from the back.
If the contract for Carlos Baleba is successful, the Cameroonian youngster will become an ideal partner alongside Fernandes, providing a more competitive and defensive support plan.
attack
Recruiting Sesko for £74 million also helps reduce the pressure on Rasmus Hojlund. However, as the Red Devils will not feature in European competition next season, there will be doubts about whether the Danish player will have enough playing time.
Joshua Zirkzee is considered a reliable rotation. Last season, he proved his worth by being able to contribute effectively even though he did not score too many goals.
In addition, there will be times when Bruno Fernandes plays lower, supporting the striker and strengthening the defense. This could be an option in the opening game against Arsenal, if Amorim does not want to bring all three new players on the pitch at the same time.
Potential lineup of Man United in the 2025-2026 season: Onana, Yoro, De Ligt, Martinez, Dorgu, Baleba, Fernandes, Amad, Cunha, Sesko, Mbeumo.
