Manchester United has begun its preparations for a pivotal season under head coach Michael Carrick, who has been confirmed as the permanent manager after guiding the team to a strong finish last season, culminating in a return to the UEFA Champions League.
To enhance the squad, midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have been signed, with further transfer activity anticipated.
While the players who participated in the FIFA World Cup have yet to return, preseason matches are underway. The team faced a setback in Finland with a loss to Wrexham but secured a solid 5-0 victory against Rosenborg in Norway. Upcoming fixtures include matches against Atlético Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Leeds United, and AC Milan before the Premier League opener against newly promoted Hull City on August 22.
As Carrick, his staff, and club management prepare for the upcoming season, several key issues must be addressed. Here are five critical priorities as they aim to build on last season’s successes.
1. Complete the squad overhaul
United has strengthened its midfield with the acquisitions of Santos and Tielemans at a cost of £85 million, but further reinforcements are necessary. There is a possibility of signing a third midfielder, along with potential additions of another striker and a left-sided player, whether that be a left back or left winger.
Fans have expressed concerns that the Glazer family’s ownership has resulted in inadequate investments in the squad following Champions League qualifications. To fully satisfy supporters, a couple more signings are needed before the transfer window closes.
2. Address Rashford’s situation
This is a delicate matter that requires careful handling. There were earlier expectations that Barcelona would take up their £26m option to make Marcus Rashford‘s loan permanent, but that has not occurred. Currently, it seems he will rejoin the first-team squad, as the likelihood of organizing another transfer before he returns to training in early August appears low, which leaves open the chance for him to remain at Old Trafford next season.
This situation has some awkward elements. Rashford’s No. 10 shirt has already been given to Matheus Cunha, and there may be fan backlash regarding his previous conduct. However, with Carrick’s knowledge of Rashford from their time together under José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, he could be the right person to help Rashford regain his focus and performance.
3. Evaluate Maguire and Shaw
One significant challenge for United will be managing a return to the Champions League. Carrick succeeded with only one match per week after his January appointment, allowing him to select a consistent lineup—a luxury that may change with the Champions League fixtures on the horizon.
Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are integral to Carrick’s plans, but there are concerns about their ability to manage a demanding schedule. Maguire will turn 34 in March, and Shaw has struggled with injuries in the past.
Both players have returned for preseason training after missing a spot in England’s World Cup squad, and it is crucial for Carrick and his coaching staff to gauge their limits for the season ahead. While maximizing their availability is important, they must avoid the risk of injuries that could sideline them for prolonged periods.
4. Support Lammens
This task falls specifically to Carrick. Senne Lammens had a stellar debut season at Old Trafford but may face confidence issues after his unfortunate mistake contributed to Belgium‘s early exit from the World Cup. Coming on as a late substitute for Thibaut Courtois, he mishandled Pau Cubarsí‘s shot, which led to the decisive goal by Arsenal‘s Mikel Merino. He appeared visibly shattered following the match, highlighting the urgency for the club to restore his confidence.
Carrick is known for his strong man-management skills and has firsthand experience with World Cup disappointments from his playing days with England in 2006 and 2010. Lammens was a standout performer for United last season, and it’s essential for him to not carry any negative feelings into the new campaign. The club may face a similar situation with Kobbie Mainoo, who missed out on an opportunity with the England squad during the tournament.
5. Determine which young talents to integrate
With an increased number of matches next season, there will be greater opportunities for younger players. Carrick’s ability to identify a few academy graduates who can become regular contributors — playing between 10 and 15 games — will significantly boost United’s depth without requiring excessive spending in the transfer market. Shea Lacey made an impressive showing against Rosenborg, netting the opening goal with a well-placed shot. Left back Harry Amass, who gained some Premier League experience under Amorim, also scored in Trondheim.
It will be intriguing to see which youngsters remain with the senior team once the World Cup players return.