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Manchester United head into the 2024/25 season with a mix of cautious optimism and high expectations. Last season was a rollercoaster for the Red Devils, finishing a disappointing 8th in the Premier League and exiting the Champions League early. Despite their struggles, United ended on a high note by clinching the FA Cup, defeating cross-town rivals Manchester City with academy graduates Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho scoring the decisive goals. It doesn’t get more special than that!
This summer has been filled with hope and strategic planning. Erik ten Hag, now going into his third season, aims to build on his first year, in which he led United to a 3rd place finish and a Carabao Cup triumph. The team needs to recapture that form from that successful campaign and push for higher league finishes and deeper runs in European competitions.
With the foundations laid last season, the Red Devils are eager to return to the upper echelons of English football. The FA Cup victory has rejuvenated the squad and fanbase alike, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal season. The key question remains: can Manchester United harness their FA Cup momentum and translate it into consistent Premier League success? Only time will tell, but the ingredients for a resurgence are certainly in place.
Let’s talk Manchester United
2023/24 Season Recap: A promising season was followed by a season of disarray…
The 2023/24 season was a tumultuous one for Manchester United. Following a promising 2022/23 campaign where Erik ten Hag led the team to victory in the Carabao Cup, showcased attractive football, and secured a third-place finish in the Premier League, expectations were high. However, the subsequent season saw a significant regression. United’s performances were inconsistent, and they struggled to find their rhythm, resulting in a disappointing 8th-place finish in the league.
Despite the overall disarray, there were glimmers of hope. Young talents Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo emerged as bright spots, spearheading United’s offensive efforts with their dynamism and skill. Nevertheless, the football on display was often dire, characterized by enormous gaps between the defense and attack, and matches where United conceded upwards of 20 shots.
Paul Scholes on Kobbie Mainoo's performance in the FA Cup Final!
— 365Scores (@365Scores) May 26, 2024
Does the young star have what it takes to become a club legend? pic.twitter.com/yM2gSoeVTl
Pessimism loomed large over Old Trafford until a dramatic turn of events saw United defeat Manchester City in the FA Cup Final. This triumph not only salvaged the season but also secured ten Hag’s position as manager. Now, as the new season approaches, it is imperative for United to eliminate the defensive frailties and avoid conceding excessive shots. The time for business has arrived, and United must rise to the challenge.
Summer Business Analysis:
Manchester United had a busy summer, not just in terms of transfer activity but also with significant changes behind the scenes. An entirely new backroom staff has been appointed, and there’s exciting news that plans for a new Old Trafford are in the works.
Signings: Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee
- Leny Yoro: Securing Leny Yoro was an incredible coup for United. Initially, it seemed the deal was off, with Yoro holding out for a move to Real Madrid. However, Madrid wasn’t willing to match United’s offer, allowing the generational French center-back to make his way to Old Trafford. He impressed in his debut, but disaster struck when he suffered a metatarsal injury in just his second game, sidelining him for three months.
- Joshua Zirkzee: Signed from Bologna, Zirkzee is expected to ease the attacking burden. His arrival should provide more options up front and help bolster United’s offensive capabilities.
There could, and should, be more signings still to come. Manuel Ugarte has been linked from PSG to address United’s midfield issues, though interest has cooled due to valuation differences. Additionally, the club is eyeing an attacker, a right-back, a central midfielder, and potentially another center-back in the mold of Matthijs de Ligt. Watch this space for further developments.
Outgoings: Raphael Varane, Willy Kambwala, Anthony Martial, Mason Greenwood, Donny van de Beek, Alvaro Fernandez, Omari Forson, Brandon Williams
- Raphael Varane: A noble servant for three years, Varane leaves for Italy, joining Como. During his time at United, he helped the team secure two trophies after a LONG drought.
- Willy Kambwala: Bright player. He leaves for €10m to Villareal with a buyback clause included.
- Anthony Martial: Finally leaves after years of speculation and a decade at the club. His last appearance came against Bournemouth in December 2023. He leaves as United’s 17th top scorer of all time.
- Mason Greenwood, Donny van de Beek, Alvaro Fernandez, Omari Forson, Brandon Williams: All have been cleared out as United overhaul their squad.
Jadon Sancho has been linked with a move away to PSG, but after some reconciliation with Erik ten Hag, it’s likely he’ll stay at the club.
What’s preseason suggesting?
| Date | Home Team | Score | Away Team | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon, 15 July | Rosenborg | 1 – 0 | Man United | Loss |
| Sat, 20 July | Rangers | 0 – 2 | Man United | Win |
| Sun, 28 July | Arsenal | 2 – 1 (3-4) | Man United | Loss (Win on preorganised pens) |
| Thu, 1 August | Man United | 3 – 2 | Real Betis | Win |
| Sun, 4 August | Man United | 0 – 3 | Liverpool | Loss |
Manchester United’s preseason suggested a team on the cusp of transformation, with mixed results hinting at potential despite numerous challenges. The team started with a 1-0 loss to Rosenborg on July 15th but bounced back with a 2-0 victory over Rangers on July 20th. A hard-fought 2-1 defeat to Arsenal on July 28th, followed by a prearranged penalty shootout win, showed resilience. United secured a thrilling 3-2 win against Real Betis on August 1st, but a 3-0 loss to Liverpool on August 4th highlighted areas for improvement.
United faced these matches without many of their stars, who were still recovering from extended runs in the Euro and Copa America tournaments. This absence provided an opportunity for players like Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho to shine. After difficult campaigns last season, both had full summers and preseasons to prove themselves, displaying bright performances throughout the preseason.
Amad Diallo was another standout performer, impressing with his play and making a strong case for more minutes in the upcoming season. The preseason tour of the United States allowed numerous young players to gain valuable experience, contributing to a positive atmosphere despite the mixed results.
Amad Diallo pulled off a fantastic performance for the Red Devils against Rangers today!
— 365Scores (@365Scores) July 20, 2024
Can he finally push his way into United's starting lineup? pic.twitter.com/7Dru7WgcGw
What does the Manchester United start to the season look like?
Manchester United have been dealt a good hand. They have the opportunity to show the Premier League that they mean business. Unlike last season in which they faced Tottenham and Arsenal within the first four games, United have four certainly winnable games from their first five games.
| Date | Home Team | Away Team | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 16 Aug | Man United | Fulham | PL |
| Sat, 24 Aug | Brighton | Man United | PL |
| Sun, 1 Sept | Man United | Liverpool | PL |
| Sat, 14 Sept | Southampton | Man United | PL |
| Sat, 21 Sept | Crystal Palace | Man United | PL |
Liverpool come to Old Trafford on the 1st of September in what will be the first legitimate test of this new-look United side and the first time United face a non-Jurgen Klopp Liverpool side since 2015. They had a terrible record against him. Now, they have a clean slate and the opportunity to turn the tide against their bitter rivals.
Who will burst onto the scene this year?
Harry Amass, the 17-year-old left-back signed from Watford Academy in 2022, is poised to make a significant impact this season. Touted as a promising talent for some time, Amass impressed during the preseason tour, stepping up in the absence of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. With Shaw involved in the Euros and Malacia sidelined by injury, Amass became the first-choice left-back for preseason matches.
Last season, the left-back position was a real issue for United, but this year, it looks more promising. Ideally, Shaw would play 38 games for United, as he is one of the best left-backs in the league. Yet he’s constantly in the treatment room, opening the door for Amass. When given the opportunity, expect Amass to seize it and impress the football world with his talent and composure.
Amass’s preseason performances suggest that he is ready to contribute significantly to United’s campaign. With his skill set, determination, and wicked crossing, he could be the breakout star that bolsters United’s defensive line and helps the team achieve its goals this season.
Key Player: Bruno Fernandes
Even in a difficult season, Bruno Fernandes continued to shine for Manchester United, proving his worth as a key player. Despite being often deployed in a deeper midfield role or pushed out onto the right wing, Bruno managed to score 10 goals and provide 8 assists, showcasing his incredible versatility and influence on the pitch.
Fernandes’s qualities are numerous. He is known for his exceptional vision, pinpoint passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game. His knack for creating scoring opportunities, both for himself and his teammates, makes him an invaluable asset to the team. Last season, he averaged 3.3 key passes per game and recovered 5.7 balls per game in the Premier League.
Moreover, Bruno’s leadership and work ethic set him apart. He constantly drives the team forward, leading by example and never shying away from defensive responsibilities. His ability to deliver in crucial moments, coupled with his technical skills and football intelligence, cements his status as one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.
1st shot, 1st GOAL🔥🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) April 7, 2024
Bruno Fernandes SET the derby on FIRE with a STUNNING midfield shot 😱😱#365scores #ManUnited #Liverpool #PremierLeague #EPL #Bruno pic.twitter.com/KLwKvG02pr
As Manchester United look to improve upon last season’s performance, Bruno Fernandes will undoubtedly play a central role. His contributions in attack and midfield will be crucial to the team’s success, and fans can expect more standout performances from this incredible talent.
365Scores’ Manchester United Prediction:
This year’s Premier League campaign is difficult to predict for Manchester United. While Manchester City and Arsenal are the obvious front-runners for the first and second spots, the competition for the remaining positions is fierce, with numerous teams realistically capable of finishing anywhere between 3rd and 10th.
If United manage to secure the necessary signings—a midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo, an additional center-back, and a backup attacker—they could realistically aim for a 4th place finish. These reinforcements would address key weaknesses and provide the depth needed to compete consistently across all competitions.
However, if these signings do not materialize, a finish in 5th or 6th place seems more likely. The team’s performance hinges on solidifying their squad and maintaining consistency throughout the season. With the right additions, United can reestablish themselves among the Premier League’s elite, but without them, they may struggle to break into the top four.
By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)
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