Manchester United
Here’s a possible lineup for Manchester United in the 2024/25 season following an active summer transfer window.
GK: Andre Onana
One of Manchester United’s standout summer acquisitions from last year, Andre Onana had a rather inconsistent debut season at Old Trafford. Some unexpected and high-profile errors have placed him under considerable scrutiny, but Ten Hag seems determined to stick with him for another season at least. The £47.2m fee invested in the Cameroonian leaves the club with few alternatives but to trust him.
RB: Diogo Dalot
Right-back is a position that Manchester United would ideally look to strengthen, especially if Aaron Wan-Bissaka departs this summer. However, other positions are likely to be prioritized first, meaning Diogo Dalot may be relied upon next season. The Portuguese player impressed at times in 2023/24 and consistently shows maximum effort, though there are still concerns about his defensive skills.
CB: Leny Yoro
Seen as a major signing for Manchester United, the £52m acquisition of Leny Yoro helps address some of the club’s center-back issues. The 18-year-old has quickly risen to prominence with Lyon, developing at a much faster pace than expected, making him an exciting addition to the squad. The Red Devils might sign another central defender, but Yoro should still get plenty of playing time next season.
CB: Lisandro Martinez
The diminutive Argentine was greatly missed last season, with injuries affecting his campaign. However, he returned for the FA Cup final and delivered a stellar performance, which is exactly what Manchester United will expect from him regularly next season. The left-footed defender will be brimming with confidence after Copa America success with Argentina this summer.
LB: Luke Shaw
Injuries were also a theme of Luke Shaw’s season, with the left-back missing much of the second half. Tyrell Malacia’s injury problems left Ten Hag short-handed, but Shaw made his return at Euro 2024 with England and remains crucial when available.
DM: Kobbie Mainoo
Manchester United must build their future around Kobbie Mainoo, with the exceptional 19-year-old flourishing last season. A vital goal in the FA Cup final and an impressive Euro 2024 have only solidified his place as a guaranteed starter for the Red Devils next season.
DM: Manuel Ugarte
The Red Devils are understandably eager to sign at least one new midfielder this summer, given the problems they faced last season. Manuel Ugarte is one of the potential targets, and the tenacious Uruguayan and Paris Saint-Germain defensive midfielder would be a smart addition for the right price. He would immediately slot into the starting lineup.
RM: Alejandro Garnacho
Another outstanding product of the Manchester United academy, Alejandro Garnacho also scored in last season’s FA Cup final and produced the Goal of the Season in the Premier League with an exquisite overhead kick. While he prefers the left flank, he may be shifted to the right to accommodate Marcus Rashford.
AM: Bruno Fernandes
Despite the criticism Bruno Fernandes often faces, primarily from rival fans, the Portuguese player is absolutely essential for the Red Devils. Not only does he wear the captain’s armband, but he is also the main creator for a team that struggled to score at times last season.
LM: Marcus Rashford
After a very disappointing 2023/24 campaign, Marcus Rashford must rediscover his best form next season. If he doesn’t, Manchester United will have a serious decision to make regarding his future. The England international is unstoppable on his day, but those days were few and far between last year.
ST: Joshua Zirkzee
Manchester United’s first signing of the summer window, Joshua Zirkzee has arrived to help alleviate the club’s attacking woes. Rasmus Hojlund had a mixed debut season following his £72m transfer and may find himself on the bench, at least for the start of the 2024/25 season. Zirkzee had an excellent goalscoring campaign with Bologna as they qualified for the Champions League, and expectations will be high following his £36.5m move.