NEWW ERA AT MANCHESTER UNITED

Manchester United's 2025/26 season is a story of a club in the midst of a radical transformation. Following a disastrous 2024/25 campaign that saw them finish a lowly 15th, the club has embarked on a comprehensive rebuild under new manager Ruben Amorim and a reshaped front office.

 

The New Manager: Ruben Amorim

 

The most significant change at Old Trafford is the appointment of Ruben Amorim, who took over from interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy in November 2024. The former Sporting CP coach is known for his aggressive and dynamic approach, and he has spent the summer implementing his tactical vision. Amorim's preferred formation is a flexible 3-4-3, which he has successfully used to create a high-pressing, fluid system.

The core of his philosophy is centered on the "third-man" concept, creating passing triangles and numerical superiority in the midfield to break down opposition defenses. He encourages his wing-backs to push high up the pitch, creating overloads and exploiting space on the flanks. This tactical shift is a departure from the style of play under previous managers and is aimed at returning the club to a more modern, possession-based, and attacking brand of football.

 

The Summer Rebuild: Key Transfers

 

With no European football to contend with this season, Manchester United's primary focus has been on overhauling their squad. The club has been active in the transfer market, spending big to bring in players who fit Amorim's system.

• Matheus Cunha (£62.5m) and Bryan Mbeumo (£71m): The club has invested heavily in attacking talent, signing Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Both players are versatile and can operate across the forward line, providing Amorim with multiple attacking options.

• Benjamin Sesko (£73.7m): The biggest attacking signing is Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. His arrival addresses the club's desperate need for a clinical finisher.

• Other Signings: United has also added young talent, including a permanent move for Paraguayan defender Diego Leon and the free-agent signing of Enzo Kana-Biyik, who has been immediately loaned out to Switzerland.

• Major Departures: The club has also seen some significant exits. Fan favorite Marcus Rashford has joined Barcelona on loan, while Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof have all departed on free transfers.

 

A Mixed Pre-season and A Tough Start

 

Manchester United's pre-season was a turbulent affair. Their tour of Asia was particularly disappointing, with losses to ASEAN All-Stars and Hong Kong. However, they found their footing with a win over West Ham and a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Bournemouth. The final pre-season match was a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, which they won on penalties.

The real test, however, came on the opening day of the Premier League season. Manchester United faced a formidable Arsenal side at Old Trafford, a match that many saw as a litmus test for Amorim's rebuild. While the result is still to come, it's a fixture that will set the tone for a season where expectations are low, but the potential for a fresh start is high.

Manchester United has a long way to go to return to the top, but the club's decisive actions in the transfer market and the appointment of a highly-rated manager signal a clear commitment to a new direction. The 2025/26 season will be about more than just results; it will be about establishing a new identity and a new tactical foundation.