Manchester United is at a crossroads. For the first time in Premier League history, the club spent Christmas in the bottom half of the table, and it looks like finishing outside the top six is on the cards. Despite splurging nearly £600 million over the past three summers, the squad feels more fragmented than ever, not quite fitting into Ruben Amorim’s plans. The Portuguese manager is sticking to his guns, but the reality is that many players just aren’t cutting it. It’s time for some big changes, and the January transfer window is the perfect chance to turn things around. Here’s what United needs to do:
Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United is hanging by a thread. Amorim leaving him out of matchday squads says it all – this isn’t just a tactical choice, it’s a clear message. It’s tough to see a homegrown star fall out of favor, but the truth is Rashford’s time at United might be over. His £325,000-per-week wages and recent lack of impact make him hard to move, but United should follow Arsenal’s lead with Aubameyang and Ozil. Let him go, even at a loss, for the sake of a fresh start. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Amad Diallo is a gem United needs to lock down. The 22-year-old has been a standout since Ten Hag’s departure, racking up 10 goals and showing off his work rate and creativity. From his thrilling Manchester derby cameo to his key performances in Europe, Amad has proven he’s a vital player. But with his contract expiring in the summer, rival clubs will be eyeing him up for free starting in January. United can’t let that happen. They need to offer him a shiny new long-term deal to keep one of their most exciting young talents.
Even though Luke Shaw has quality, United have been missing a reliable left-back since the days of Patrice Evra. Injuries have hit Shaw hard, and his backup, Tyrell Malacia, hasn’t impressed. United’s weakness in this position has been glaring, especially with Amorim’s wing-back system. They’ve been linked with Paraguayan left-back Diego Leon, but he’s more of a long-term prospect, not an immediate fix. With Alphonso Davies potentially available for free and players like Milos Kerkez shining in the Premier League, United needs to act fast to strengthen this spot.
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United’s defense has been a mess all season. Even after spending £60 million on defenders, Amorim’s backline is still leaking goals like a sieve. The club has conceded 18 times from set-pieces in 2024 alone – more than any other year in Premier League history. United needs a central defender who can take charge, especially with 36-year-old Jonny Evans being called into action again. The Bundesliga has some strong candidates, like Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. United needs a player who can bring leadership and stability.
Rasmus Højlund was supposed to be the guy to lead the line, but he’s still finding his feet, and relying on him to carry the goal-scoring load is a bit of a gamble. Amorim’s Sporting teams thrived with a clinical striker, and United needs the same. Viktor Gyökeres, with his 27 goals in 23 games, would be a perfect fit. Alternatively, Lille’s Jonathan David or Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush could provide the firepower United desperately needs.
Sadly, Antony’s time at United is coming to an end. The Brazilian winger hasn’t lived up to expectations, with just 12 goals and 5 assists in over two seasons. Despite Ten Hag’s faith, Amorim hasn’t shown much trust in him, giving him only two starts this season. United would take a big hit on the £86 million they paid for him, but that money would be better spent elsewhere. It’s time for a clean break.
In conclusion, the January transfer window gives Manchester United a chance to reshape the squad and equip Amorim with the tools he needs to succeed. With key moves – Rashford out, Amad secured, a new left-back, defensive reinforcements, a clinical striker, and a departure for Antony – United can lay the groundwork for a brighter future.
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