Manchester United's 2024-25 Revamp: Key Changes and Ambitions

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Manchester United's squad for the 2024-25 season has undergone significant changes, aiming to improve on the disappointing performance of the previous season. Here's a detailed assessment of the squad and its potential for improvement:

Key Additions and Departures

New Signings:
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  • Joshua Zirkzee (Striker): A promising young talent from Bologna, known for his hold-up play and ability to create chances.
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  • Leny Yoro (Defender): An 18-year-old French defender signed from Lille, beating competition from Real Madrid and PSG.
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  • Matthijs de Ligt (Defender): Reunited with Erik ten Hag from Bayern Munich.
  • Noussair Mazraoui (Defender): Another former Ajax player, brought in to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
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Departures:
  • Raphael Varane, Shola Shoretire, and Anthony Martial left the club at the end of their contracts.
  • Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, Álvaro Fernández, and Donny van de Beek were sold, raising £40 million.

Squad Depth and Key Players

Goalkeepers:
  • Andre Onana is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper, with Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton as backups.
Defenders:
  • Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt are expected to be the central defensive pairing.
  • Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot will likely start at left and right-back, respectively.
  • Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro will provide depth in the center-back positions.
Midfielders:
  • Bruno Fernandes remains a key player, supported by Mason Mount and Casemiro.
  • Kobbie Mainoo is expected to play a significant role after a strong campaign with England at Euro 2024.
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Forwards:
  • Marcus Rashford will be a crucial player on the left wing.
  • Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee will compete for the striker position.
  • Amad Diallo, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Jadon Sancho will fight for spots on the right wing.

Potential for Improvement

  1. Defensive Stability:
    • The addition of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro should bolster the defense, which was a weak point last season.
    • Improved defensive organization and fewer injuries are essential to avoid the negative goal difference that plagued the team last season.
  2. Midfield Creativity:
    • The midfield trio of Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, and Kobbie Mainoo offers a good mix of creativity and defensive solidity.
    • Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay provide depth and versatility.
  3. Attacking Options:
    • The forward line is diverse, with Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, and Joshua Zirkzee providing different attacking threats.
    • The competition for places on the wings should drive performance levels up.
  4. Tactical Flexibility:
    • Erik ten Hag's tactical acumen and willingness to adapt should help the team perform better in various situations.
    • Learning from past mistakes, such as failing to defend leads, will be crucial.

Conclusion

Manchester United's squad for the 2024-25 season shows promise with key additions and a more balanced squad. The focus on young talent and tactical improvements under Erik ten Hag could lead to a significant improvement from last season. However, the team will need to stay fit and avoid the injury crises that hampered their performance last year. If they can maintain consistency and improve their defensive record, a top-four finish and a strong cup run are realistic goals.