Ruben Amorim and Manchester United are bracing for a major summer shakeup, with at least 10 permanent departures planned as per Samuel Luckhurst of Manchester Evening News. The Red Devils, languishing in 13th place, face a ruthless rebuild to get back to the glory days amid a new system under Amorim and tough Premier League financial rules.
Veterans & High-Profile Exits
Club stalwarts Jonny Evans (37) and Tom Heaton (38) are likely to retire, while Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof will be released as free agents. Marcus Rashford, on loan at Aston Villa, Antony at Real Betis, and Jadon Sancho at Chelsea are marked for permanent sales to fund incomings in the summer. Casemiro is also expected to make way ahead of a crucial window for Manchester United. Altay Bayindir may seek exits for World Cup hopes, while Tyrell Malacia’s PSV loan includes a buy option, and is expected to leave on a permanent.
Missing out on the Champions League or Europa League (guaranteeing 8+ games) means a leaner squad. The last non-European season in 2014/15 saw just 44 matches while this term, United has already played 46, with 11+ potential games remaining. Missing the financial injections due to no European football next season will further make business difficult for United.
Academy Profit Push
Sir Jim Ratcliffe insists United “won’t be selling players because of the state we are in financially”, but homegrown sales remain key. Recent transfers amounting to £109.18m windfall came from academy stars including Andreas Pereira, Mason Greenwood, James Garner, Anthony Elanga, and Scott McTominay. United will be looking for similar profits from the Academy players as Garnacho is heavily linked to a move away as is Rashford.
Futures in the Balance
The uncertainty around several Manchester United players has created a tense backdrop to Ruben Amorim’s rebuild. Kobbie Mainoo, despite his contract running until 2028, remains without a renewal, sparking transfer rumours. Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho’s potential suitors were rebuffed in January after Napoli’s bid fell short of United’s valuation. However, he is heavily linked with Athletico Madrid and reportedly has agreed personal terms with them too. Mason Mount, plagued by injuries since his arrival, still holds Amorim’s faith as a tactical fit for his 3-4-2-1 system, if he can stay fit.
Up front, things get more complex. Joshua Zirkzee initially signed to bolster the attack, now operates as a makeshift playmaker, leaving his future role uncertain. Rasmus Hojlund, tasked with spearheading the attack, shoulders blame for United’s dismal -3 Premier League goal difference, raising questions about whether he’s the long-term answer.