Football Season Guide

Erik ten Hag’s departure in October didn’t help the team bounce back, as Ruben Amorim struggled to implement his style on a mediocre squad. As a result, Manchester United finished 15th in what was their worst campaign since they were relegated in 1974. A loss to Spurs in the Europa League final came as a final blow for a Man Utd side that will not play European football this season. The Red Devils offloaded a few backup players but kept the spine intact and brought in Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to beef up their attack. The squad remains mediocre, lacking both world-class players and depth. Having had his first pre-season preparations with Man Utd, Amorim is looking to instil his philosophy into the team. Several players need to step up, while the aforementioned new signings will be called to prove that they can take the team to the next level. That said, the talent is there to be polished, as players such as Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Patrick Dorgu, Harry Amass, Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo have the potential to be converted into quality footballers under Amorim. The energy they can bring into the team could be Man Utd’s main strength this term. Only one team from those who remained in the Premier League scored fewer goals than Man Utd (44) last season. Whether Amorim’s side can deliver in the final third remains the biggest concern heading into the new season. Sesko is a signing in that direction, but it remains to be seen if he can hit the ground running.