Red Devils Reloaded: What’s next for the squad of Manchester United? | OneFootball

Man U’s youth revolution: Will new blood and budget cuts bring back the glory days?

Man U’s identity crisis

It’s been more than a decade since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down from Manchester United, and the club is still searching for its identity. Once the undisputed powerhouse of the Premier League, United has since drifted into mid-table, clinging to hopes of reclaiming its former glory. Despite a revolving door of managers and a series of high-profile signings, the winning mentality that defined the Ferguson era remains elusive.

Now, the latest man tasked with the club’s revival is Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese manager arrives with a reputation for squad development, but the challenge ahead is monumental. Rebuilding a fractured squad of Manchester United and restoring the Red Devils to their place among England’s elite won’t happen overnight — and the road ahead promises to be anything but easy.

Club economic policies

To understand how Manchester United’s squad could evolve, we must first examine the club’s financial situation closely. Despite being one of the world’s most powerful and recognizable football brands, United’s finances are far from stable. In 2024, the club generated £661.8 million in revenue but still reported losses of £113.2 million. In response, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently took charge of the club’s operations, has implemented aggressive cost-cutting measures. This has included the dismissal of more than 250 staff members and even the termination of Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial contract. The club has also adopted a more restrained transfer policy, which became evident in the quiet winter window of 2025 — a trend likely to continue for at least a few more seasons. As a result, fans shouldn’t expect the kind of blockbuster signings that once defined United’s transfer strategy.

Which Manchester United players are expected to leave?

With a limited budget for new signings, Ruben Amorim has made it clear that his strategy to reshape the squad of Manchester United revolves around offloading high-earning players. We’ve already seen this approach in action with the loan departures of Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia — deals that include purchase options for their new clubs. Amorim has also expressed his intention to part ways with players he believes are past their prime, particularly those over 30. This puts defenders Harry Maguire (31), Jonny Evans (36), Victor Lindelof (30), and midfielder Christian Eriksen (32) firmly on the list of betus.com.pa likely exits. The sale of these players could inject some much-needed funds into the club’s coffers, giving United a chance to make a few strategic acquisitions. One thing is certain: the squad is set for a significant overhaul in the coming seasons.

The bet on young players

If there’s one clear direction in Manchester United’s transfer strategy, it’s the focus on youth. Recent signings like Patrick Dorgu (20) and Ayden Heaven (19) signal a commitment to building a foundation of promising young talent for the squad of Manchester United. This approach is expected to continue in the summer window, with an emphasis on players under 22 who can make an immediate impact and grow with the club. Beyond external signings, the Manchester United team has been heavily investing in its academy, preparing a new generation of homegrown stars — following in the footsteps of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.

Which young talents could break into the Manchester United first team?

Toby Collyer

With Casemiro and Eriksen both likely on their way out of the squad of Manchester United, Toby Collyer emerges as one of the club’s most promising midfield options. The 20-year-old has built a reputation as a fierce ball-winner and an excellent passer. His recent long-term contract with United is a clear sign that the club sees him as a key part of its future.

Elyh Harrison

At just 18, Elyh Harrison is already making waves. Though slightly undersized for a goalkeeper, his talent more than compensates for it. Hailed as the best goalkeeper the United academy has ever produced, Harrison has earned multiple call-ups to England’s youth squads. The expectations for his future at Old Trafford couldn’t be higher.

Shea Lacey

At just 17 years old, Lacey is already being hailed as the next Wayne Rooney. A true triple threat, Lacey has the vision and precision to break down defenses with his passing, exceptional technical ability, and a clinical finishing touch that makes him a formidable striker. Despite Rasmus Hojlund still working to prove his worth, Lacey’s talent already casts a long shadow over the competition for his position. The only thing holding him back so far has been injuries, which have delayed his long-anticipated step up to the first team. If he can stay fit, his future at Manchester United looks incredibly bright.