This is what Man Utd's starting XI could look like in 2024/25

  • Manchester United head into 2024/25 season looking to make significant improvements
  • Erik ten Hag has been handed a contract extension despite uncertainty regarding his future
  • Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee have signed for the Red Devils already
Ten Hag is in charge heading into 24/25
Ten Hag is in charge heading into 24/25 / Ian MacNicol/GettyImages
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It's already been a decisive summer for Manchester United, who are aiming for a more joyous season in 2024/25.

The Red Devils ended last term on a high by lifting the FA Cup, but that only papered over some sizeable cracks. Having decided against sacking the much-maligned Erik ten Hag, even handing him a contract extension, the proof will be in the pudding as the Red Devils look to make drastic improvements.

There is plenty of room for improvement when it comes to Man Utd's squad. They have already addressed issues at centre-back and number nine and they are expected to make further additions before the transfer window slams shut. Sales are also likely to free up funds for Ten Hag and his recruitment team.

Here is how Man Utd could line up for the 2024/25 season after a busy summer.


How Man Utd could line up for 2024/25 season

Erik ten Hag
Man Utd have kept faith in Ten Hag / Ian MacNicol/GettyImages

GK: Andre Onana

One of Man Utd's shiny summer signings from last year, Andre Onana had an incredibly patchy debut season at Old Trafford. Some surprising and high-profile gaffes have placed him under significant pressure, but Ten Hag seems set to persist with him for another season at least. The £47.2m fee splashed on the Cameroonian gives the club few other options than to trust him.

RB: Diogo Dalot

Right-back is an area of the pitch that Man Utd would ideally strengthen and one they will have to if Aaron Wan-Bissaka leaves this summer. But there are priority positions that are likely to be bolstered first, meaning Diogo Dalot may be relied upon next term. The Portuguese impressed at times in 2023/24 and always offers maximum effort, but there remain question marks over his defensive acumen.

CB: Leny Yoro

Considered a major coup for Man Utd, the £52m signing of Leny Yoro alleviates some of the club's centre-back problems. The 18-year-old has risen to prominence with Lyon and has developed at a much faster rate than expected in France, making him an exciting addition to the setup. The Red Devils may sign another central defender yet, but Yoro should still earn plenty of minutes next season.

CB: Lisandro Martinez

The diminutive Argentine was sorely missed last season, with injuries plaguing his campaign. But he returned for the FA Cup final and put in a monster performance, which is exactly what Man Utd will expect of him on a regular basis next season. The left-footed defender will be full of confidence after Copa America glory with Argentina this summer.

LB: Luke Shaw

Injuries were a theme of Luke Shaw's season as well, with the left-back missing the majority of the second half of the season. Tyrell Malacia's injury woes left Ten Hag short, but Shaw made his return at Euro 2024 with England and remains integral when available.

DM: Kobbie Mainoo

Man Utd must build their future around Kobbie Mainoo, with the exceptional 19-year-old blossoming last season. A crucial goal in the FA Cup final and an excellent Euro 2024 have only solidified his place as a guaranteed starter for the Red Devils next term.

DM: Manuel Ugarte

The Red Devils are understandably keen on signing at least one new midfielder this summer - a problem position for them last season. Manuel Ugarte is one of the names under consideration and the tenacious Uruguay and Paris Saint-Germain defensive midfielder would be a smart addition for the right price. He would walk straight into the starting lineup.

RM: Alejandro Garnacho

Another exceptional product of the Man Utd academy, Alejandro Garnacho also scored in last season's FA Cup final, as well as producing the Goal of the Season in the Premier League with an exquisite overhead kick. While preferring the left flank, he may be forced out to the right to accommodate Marcus Rashford.

AM: Bruno Fernandes

Despite the scrutiny Bruno Fernandes often finds himself under, mainly from rival fans, the Portuguese is absolutely essential for the Red Devils. Not only does he don the captain's armband, he is the chief creator for a side that struggled to find the back of the net at times last season.

LM: Marcus Rashford

After an extremely underwhelming 2023/24 campaign, Marcus Rashford simply must find his best form next term. If he doesn't, Man Utd have a serious decision on their hands regarding his future. The England international is unstoppable on his day, but those days were few and far between last year.

ST: Joshua Zirkzee

Man Utd's first signing of the summer window, Joshua Zirkzee has arrived to help reduce the club's attacking woes. Rasmus Hojlund endured a hit-and-miss debut season following his £72m move and may be relegated to the bench, at least for the first part of the 2024/25 season. Zirkzee enjoyed a terrific goalscoring campaign with Bologna as they qualified for the Champions League and expectations will be high following his £36.5m move.


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