Manchester United Players Face Crucial Season Under Amorim

Manchester United is embarking on a pivotal season as they aim to recover from their poorest performance in over 50 years. Under the leadership of newly appointed coach Ruben Amorim, who took charge in November 2023, the club is making significant changes during their pre-season tour in the United States. Amorim, acknowledging the pressure to deliver, is assessing his squad to determine which players can contribute to a rejuvenated Manchester United.

Several high-profile players have already departed, including Marcus Rashford, who has joined Barcelona on loan, and Alejandro Garnacho, who has been instructed to find a new club. Those who have made the journey to the U.S. are seizing the opportunity to prove their worth. As further changes loom, certain squad members must demonstrate they can be integral to the club’s long-term future.

Key Players Under the Spotlight

Midfielder Mason Mount is one of the players facing a crucial season. After joining from Chelsea for £60 million in 2023, Mount has struggled with injuries, making just 13 Premier League starts. He has only completed a full match once for United, during a League Cup tie against Newcastle in November 2023. Now fit, Mount must reclaim his form from the 2021-22 season, when he netted 11 Premier League goals. Amorim values Mount’s pressing ability, but with over £130 million spent on new signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, competition for places is fierce.

Forward Joshua Zirkzee is also under scrutiny. Since his £36.5 million move from Bologna, he admits he has yet to show his best form. After facing criticism from fans earlier in his tenure, Zirkzee has made strides to improve his performances but ended last season with just three goals in 32 Premier League matches. He needs to establish himself within Amorim’s system, which may require adapting his playing style.

Another player whose future is uncertain is left back Luke Shaw. While his talent is undisputed, his fitness has been a recurring issue. Managers at both club and international levels have valued Shaw’s contributions when available, but he has spent significant time on the sidelines. Amorim’s three-man defense could benefit from Shaw’s skill set, but another injury-plagued season may force the club to reconsider his position.

Emerging Talent and Future Prospects

The case of 20-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo adds another layer of intrigue. His potential is clear, yet questions remain about his role in Amorim’s plans. Mainoo has played various positions, including a false No. 9 at times last season. Despite being a standout player at Euro 2024, he found game time limited towards the end of the previous season. Amorim has expressed ambition for Mainoo but emphasized the need for him to increase his pace and rhythm. If Mainoo cannot secure a first-team spot this season, concerns about his contract—which runs until 2027 with an option for an additional year—may arise.

United’s transfer strategy has aimed to bolster their attacking options, with Cunha and Mbeumo already signed, and potentially more new faces on the horizon. The club’s search for a striker continues, with interest in Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. Meanwhile, discussions regarding goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez have emerged, despite a rejected loan bid from Aston Villa. Interest also lingers around Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has a year remaining on his contract at Paris Saint-Germain.

Currently, André Onana, United’s first-choice goalkeeper, appears set for another season. His consistency will be crucial; if Onana can minimize costly errors, he may solidify his position, reducing the urgency for an upgrade in that area.

With Amorim at the helm, Manchester United is focused on turning the tide after a challenging period. The upcoming season will not only be a test for the newly appointed coach but also for players who must rise to the occasion to secure their futures at the club. As the team prepares for a fresh start, the spotlight is firmly on those who hope to build a lasting legacy at Old Trafford.