Manchester United Faces Crucial Summer Following Tough Season
Manchester United is gearing up for a pivotal summer as they deal with the aftermath of their least successful league campaign in over 30 years, last experienced during the 1989-90 season. Minority owner Jim Ratcliffe has been proactive in introducing changes, such as appointing a new chief executive, Omar Berrada, and a technical director, Jason Wilcox. Despite efforts to streamline what he describes as a “bloated” non-playing staff and revealing plans for a new stadium, Ratcliffe has yet to win over fans—especially while the unpopular Glazer family remains in control as majority owners.
Tactical Shift Under Amorim
Following the departure of Erik ten Hag in November, Ruben Amorim was appointed as his successor, offering fans a glimpse of a potential long-term strategy. However, results have not met expectations as Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 tactical system clashes with the current squad’s attributes, creating a sluggish transition from Ten Hag’s former style. Although results have been disappointing, the club’s direction appears more coherent, and the endorsement of Ratcliffe helps to alleviate some fan discontent at this time.
Europa League as a Determining Factor
The club’s fortunes may hinge on the outcome of the Europa League, where they have advanced to the semifinals, facing Athletic Club. Success in this tournament could secure a spot in the Champions League, resulting in a substantial financial boost—estimated between £60 million and £120 million. This influx could significantly enhance the transfer budget, especially vital given that many current players face steep pay cuts if they fail to qualify for European competition.
Financial Prospects and Player Retention
Manchester United is reportedly planning a budget of around £80 million for net spending this summer, which could potentially rise to £130 million or more if Champions League qualification is attained. The club anticipates saving between £12 million and £15 million in wages from departing players, and the good news is that there are few forthcoming contract renewals to navigate, reflecting a season filled with underachievement.
Player Evaluation: Keep or Move On
Goalkeeping Options
André Onana (29 years old, contract until 2028)
Ogden: “He was signed by Ten Hag and he’s an accident waiting to happen. You have to shift him if you can, though it’s not going to be easy.”
Marcotti: “He hasn’t had a good year, I’ll grant you…there’s not a market for him among clubs that can afford the £30m-plus that’s left on his amortization.”
Verdict: Split between move on and keep.
Altay Bayindir (27, contract until 2027)
Ogden: “He makes mistakes when he comes in. Move on.”
Marcotti: “If you get any offer over £4m, let him go.”
Verdict: Move on.
Defensive Line
Leny Yoro (19, contract until 2029)
Verdict: Keep.
Lisandro Martínez (27, contract until 2027)
Ogden: “I’d hold off on extending him until he shows he can stay fit and contribute in this system.”
Verdict: Keep, do not extend his contract.
Midfield Considerations
Manuel Ugarte (24, contract until 2029)
Verdict: Keep.
Casemiro (33, contract until 2026)
Marcotti: “It would be better for him—and for United—if he moved on, but his salary makes it very hard for him to leave.”
Verdict: Move on.
Forward Line Dynamics
Alejandro Garnacho (20, contract until 2028)
Ogden: “I just don’t see him developing into a player who is worth keeping.”
Verdict: Move on.
Joshua Zirkzee (23, contract until 2029)
Ogden: “Keeping him is a reward for failure, because I don’t think he’d start for any other Premier League team outside the bottom three.”
Verdict: Split between move and keep.
Looking Ahead
Manchester United finds itself poised for transformative changes this summer, with potential spending of up to £300 million should they secure Champions League status. Key areas requiring reinforcement include striker capabilities and central midfield, along with possible upgrades in goalkeeping. While a single window may not be sufficient for a complete overhaul, this summer represents a crucial opportunity for the club to establish its intent and shape its future.