Manchester United's first season under the guidance of Erik ten Hag has been worthy of applause, with the Dutch boss leading the team to the Premier League top-four finish, which eventually secured their place in the Champions League. Additionally, the Red Devils broke their trophy drought by clinching the Carabao Cup and making a memorable run to the FA Cup final.
After his successful first year at Old Trafford, Ten Hag faced difficulties with his side later on, in the first half of the 2023–24 season. The Red Devils struggled to maintain their high standards, resulting in early exits from both the Champions League and the Carabao Cup.
United still face difficulties in reclaiming a spot in the Premier League's top four. They currently occupy the 6th position in the top domestic league, trailing by five points behind the fourth-place spot.
Fans will be hopeful to see positive changes in the team following the arrival of British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whose INEOS investment acquired a 25 percent stake in the club and assumed control of football operations, including transfers
Despite high expectations for activity during the January transfer window, the club's focus shifted to preparations for the summer due to Financial Fair Play restrictions. Consequently, the transfer market remained relatively quiet, with the emphasis placed on restructuring the squad rather than bringing in new signings.
Last summer, United secured the signing of Rasmus Hojlund to bolster the attack. Mason Mount left Chelsea to join the Red Devils, while Andre Onana made a move to Old Trafford to replace the Spanish keeper David de Gea. Altay Bayindir followed the Cameroon international as a backup option.
Club veteran Jonny Evans joined the Red Devils on a short-term contract, with the contract expiring at the end of the 2023–24 campaign. Sofyan Amrabat, meanwhile, completed a loan move with an option for another year. As for Sergio Reguilon, his loan spell lasted six months, as the player left the club in January 2024.
Looking ahead, the upcoming summer transfer market may be the perfect time for Erik ten Hag's side to welcome fresh players to the squad in hopes of reaching new heights and bringing the historical club's glory back.
Below, VbetNews takes a look at how Manchester United should line up for the majority of their Premier League and European Cup matches in 2024–25:
How Manchester United should line up for 2024/25
GK: Andre Onana
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Andre Onana joined Manchester United in the summer of 2024 following his impressive spell at Inter Milan. The Cameroon international played a key role in the Serie A side's Champions League run, helping the team to reach the final of the European tournament.
Onana's arrival sparked hope among United fans for a positive change in the team's fortunes. However, his debut season in the Premier League was marred by difficulties, with the team enduring their worst start to a season in the Premier League era, recording only nine points from their first seven matches.
So far, Onana has conceded 52 goals and kept 10 clean sheets in all competitions. Despite the challenging start to the campaign, there remains optimism that he can rediscover his top form and showcase his quality on the pitch in his second season at Old Trafford.
RB: Diogo Dalot
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Diogo Dalot is a determined player who has faced challenges but persevered to become important for Manchester United under Erik ten Hag.
Despite obstacles like changes in management and competition for his position, Dalot has stayed committed and adaptable. The defender saw challenges as chances to prove himself.
With the Portuguese international, the Red Devils have returned to better form after a poor start to the season, being unbeaten in the first seven games in all competitions in 2024.
CB: Jarrad Branthwaite
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Jarrad Branthwaite has been a standout player for Sean Dyche's team this season, despite their struggles in a relegation battle.
The center-back returned from a successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven and became a regular starter for Everton, showcasing his quality on the field and hence, catching the attention of Premier League clubs like Manchester United.
At just 21 years old, Branthwaite has already shown maturity on the field. His ability to start transitional attacks with accurate passing from defense would fit well with United's style of play, while his arrival would require less adaptation to the demands of English football.
CB: Jean-Clair Todibo
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Jean-Clair Todibo has become an obvious target for Manchester United due to the remarkable quality of his performances for OGC Nice, who are third in Ligue 1.
One significant advantage that could facilitate this transfer is the ownership of Nice by Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group, which would streamline the negotiation process.
As a center-back, Todibo possesses the defensive skills and attributes necessary to strengthen Manchester United's backline. His ability to read the game, make interceptions, and win aerial duels could bolster the club's defense.
LB: Luke Shaw
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Luke Shaw plays a key role in Manchester United's defence. His contributions are crucial to Manchester United's tactical framework, as he provides both defensive stability and attacking impetus.
Unfortunately for the team, the England international is set to be sidelined until the end of the 2023/24 campaign due to a muscle injury picked in the victory over Luton Town.
Once back on the team, Shaw will surely be a first-choice man for Erik ten Hag in Manchester United's pursuit of success.
CM: Carlos Casemiro
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Playing a defensive midfielder's role at Manchester United, Casemiro stands out with outstanding tackling, strength, passing skills, and leadership attributes during matches.
Casemiro's arrival at Old Trafford brought a winning mentality into the team, resulting in their first title win in six years. With his background at Real Madrid, he not only bolstered the team's attacking prowess but also catalyzed a significant turnaround in their overall performance.
The Brazil international will surely be a crucial part of Ten Hag's reshaping of the team in the 2024/25 season.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo
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Manchester United's young talent Kobbie Mainoo is improving game by game, showing Erik ten Hag that he is capable of pushing himself into the first team, where we expect him to be in the 2024/25 season.
Mainoo's partnership with Casemiro can strengthen United's midfield, making it tough for opponents to break through their defense and providing stability and creativity in the middle of the pitch. As they gel further, Mainoo's role alongside Casemiro could be crucial for United's success in future matches.
As they continue to develop their understanding and chemistry on the field, Mainoo's presence alongside Casemiro could prove instrumental in the Red Devils' midfield dominance and overall success in future matches.
CM: Bruno Fernandes
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Bruno Fernandes stands out as one of Manchester United's most impactful signings since the post-Ferguson era began. His contribution helped the Red Devils return to the Champions League football, reach the Europa League final and finally secure a long-waited trophy win in the Carabao Cup final.
His enduring influence on the team was further underscored by his contract extension with the club in April 2022.
In the ongoing 2023/24 season, the United captain has already contributed to 14 goals/assists across all competitions.
LW: Marcus Rashford
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Marcus Rashford's time at Manchester United has been defined by notable accomplishments and valuable contributions to the squad.
During his long-term serving at Old Trafford, the United's academy star has demonstrated his skill and adaptability on the pitch, receiving acclaim for his stellar performances.
Despite a challenging start to the 2023/24 season for the attacker, given his history of both highs and lows, we believe that he will bounce back to peak form and earn a place in Ten Hag's starting lineup.
RW: Michael Olise
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Manchester United's attack is facing challenges, particularly because of Antony's poor form. Despite his high price tag, the Brazilian hasn't met the expectations of the club and the football fans.
Michael Olise is seen as a suitable prospect to fill the gap in the Red Devils' attacking force. Antony's future at the club will likely be in jeopardy if Crystal Palace star arrives at Old Trafford.
Olise could enhance Manchester United's overall performance providing fresh force and creativity in the club's attack.
CF: Rasmus Hojlund
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Rasmus Hojlund had a sluggish start at Manchester United, as well as setbacks due to injuries and scoring difficulties. However, the 2024 year started with a great success.
The forward has consistently found the back of the net in multiple games, setting a record as the youngest player to score in six consecutive matches.
With a total of 13 goals and two assists across all competitions, Hojlund's progress solidifies his role as Manchester United's primary attacking threat in the upcoming 2024/25 season.
Manchester United lineup, starting XI for the 2024–25 season
Manchester United 2024/25 squad
Goalkeepers
- 27 André Onana
- 1 Altay Bayındır
- 22 Tom Heaton
Defenders
- 6 Lisandro Martínez
- 19 Raphaël Varane
- 5 Harry Maguire
- 2 Victor Lindelöf
- 35 Jonny Evans
- 53 Willy Kambwala
- 23 Luke Shaw
- 12 Tyrell Malacia
- 20 Diogo Dalot
- 29 Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Midfielders
- 18 Casemiro
- 4 Sofyan Amrabat
- 39 Scott McTominay
- 14 Christian Eriksen
- 37 Kobbie Mainoo
- 8 Bruno Fernandes
- 7 Mason Mount
- 47 Shola Shoretire
Attackers
- 10 Marcus Rashford
- 17 Alejandro Garnacho
- 21 Antony
- 16 Amad Diallo
- 11 Rasmus Højlund
- 9 Anthony Martial
Manchester United 2024/25 transfers
Manchester United 2024/25 transfers IN
Manchester United are yet to make new transfers for the 2024-25 campaign.
- Jarrad Branthwaite (from Everton) - 70%
- Jean-Clair Todibo (from Nice) - 65%
- Michael Olise (from Crystal Palace) - 60%
- Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (from Bayern Munich) - 55%
- Roony Bardghji (from Copenhagen) - 33%
- Marcus Edwards (from Sporting CP) - 30%
Manchester United 2024/25 transfers OUT
- Sofyan Amrabat (Contract Expiry): Jun 30, 2024 - 50%
- Anthony Martial (Contract Expiry): Jun 30, 2024 - 90%
- Jonny Evans (Contract Expiry): Jun 30, 2024 - 90%
- Tom Heaton (Contract Expiry): Jun 30, 2024 - 90%
- Álvaro Carreras (Contract Expiry): Jun 30, 2024 - 90%
- Brandon Williams (Contract Expiry) Jun 30, 2024 -90%
- Mason Greenwood (Transfer Links) - 90%
Which players are likely to leave Manchester United?
As of the current situation, four players from Manchester United are set to depart from Old Trafford by the end of the 2023–24 season.
Sofyan Amrabat has been signed on loan until June 30, 2024, with a potential buy option, but there's a chance he might not stay with the club. Anthony Martial has the option of another year but is expected to leave. According to the Sun, he could be offered the chance to return to France, with his former club Monaco and Ligue 1 side Marseille showing interest.
Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton are also among the players set to leave the club.
The latest report from ESPN claims, United could decide on putting eleven players up for sale, including Christian Eriksen, Raphael Varane, Casemiro, Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Victor Lindelof.
Jadon Sancho, Donny Van de Beek, Facundo Pellistri, and Brandon Williams are also on the potential exit list and could be on their way out after returning from their loan spells.
Amid the bold transfer links with La Liga giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, Mason Greenwood, whose future at Old Trafford is considered over, could make a permanent move, after returning from his loan spell at Girona.