Manchester United will aim to build on an impressive first season under Erik Ten Hag. Reports suggest that more arrivals and departures are expected at Old Trafford, but here’s a look at their possible line-up.
Erik Ten Hag’s mission to close the gap on Pepe Guardiola’s Manchester City continues this season, with the Dutch mentor adding new faces to an already menacing Red Devils’ squad that finished 3rd in the Premier League last term.
They still remain far behind compared to their cross-town rivals though, who claimed the League title last season with a 14-point lead and scored almost double of their goal tally.
But guiding the team back to Champions League football is certainly a step in the right direction by Ten Hag, and there is no doubt that the season ahead presents new challenges for the side along with the fresh faces coming into Old Trafford.
In addition to preserving and improving their away performances, United have had to address the issue of misfiring in front of goal by bringing in Mason Mount from Chelsea, as well as tying down Marcus Rashford to a new long-term contract.
Defence
In the past, United have sold and brought in a number of players to try and ensure a solid backline that would protect David de Gea in goals. And while this has almost always failed in recent seasons, the previous campaign did show a huge improvement in Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s games.
The pair are singled out for their notable upward shift in their performances under Ten Hag’s first season with the team, especially as the season drew to a close with the club fighting for a Champions League spot.
Now, with the acquisition of a new goalkeeper following de Gea’s departure, Man United’s backline may finally just be complete. Describing himself as a ‘modern goalkeeper’, Andre Onana is a shot-stopper who knows when and how to adapt to the needs of a team like Manchester United team in possession.
The 27-year-old Cameroonian has amazing ability with the ball in his hands, but wait till you see what he can do with the ball at his feet!
Can't wait to get started! 💪🏾🔥 https://t.co/DBYnVYtBqv
— Andre Onana (@AndreyOnana) July 22, 2023
Midfield
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro was easily the Red Devils’ best signing in recent years. After initial doubts about the money United spent on him, the experienced midfielder proved those doubters wrong by popping up with crucial goals in the Carabao Cup final and the last games of the league season to help his side into the top four.
He is a big game player, and will play a crucial part yet again as United chase glory this season. He will be supported by the likes of Christian Eriksen, youngster Kobbie Mainoo and of course, Mason Mount – the new arrival from Stamford Bridge.
Academy graduate Mainoo played in the Friendly against Arsenal on Saturday and was very fluid, once dropping so deep United practically shifted to a back three, and floating to the right to occupy pockets that allowed Antony to move closer to goal.
Meanwhile, 24-year-old Mount brings energy and is technically sound, plus he has proven over the years he can chip in with goals and assists. I expect him to form great playing chemistry with new club captain Bruno Fernandez.
Good pass from Mainoo, but look at Mount here — quick in transition, link-up, combinations, and goal threat.
— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) July 23, 2023
Fast, dynamic football like this requires his type of profile, and I'm sure he'll become an important player for us once he settles in. ❤️pic.twitter.com/eoBULg3Kbs
Forward
Marcus put pen to paper on a new contract with United earlier last week, after enjoying the most prolific season of his career in 2022/23. The England international scored 30 goals in all competitions, the first Red to do so since Robin van Persie in 2012/13. More of the same, please?
But Ten Hag could still revive his interest in Harry Kane after it’s been reported that the striker cannot be allowed to run down his contract at Spurs and leave for nothing next year.
What a signing this would be! Kane has had arguably the best individual season of his career, scoring 30 league goals in a dire Tottenham side that failed to secure any European football.
First 45 minutes of pre season! Thank you New York for the fantastic support 🇺🇸⚽️ pic.twitter.com/OVvxYLd2sC
— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) July 23, 2023
Here’s how I see Manchester United lining up this season:
