Man Utd players’ future under Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Who will stay?
Times are changing at Manchester United following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s and Ineos’ investment into the club. The investment has already led to wholesale changes behind the scenes, and it is expected that these changes will extend to the on-pitch personnel as well. Gary Neville, a legend of the club, has warned the players that their futures are under threat.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Neville stated that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made it clear that he is evaluating every single player and that they are all playing for their future at the club. This warning from Neville highlights the uncertainty surrounding the current squad and raises questions about which players will remain at the club.
In analyzing the squad, it is evident that some players should stay, while others should be let go. Andre Onana, the goalkeeper, has proven himself to be reliable and should be kept. Altay Bayindir, on the other hand, has not had enough opportunities to judge his capabilities and could potentially be sold.
Tom Heaton, the veteran goalkeeper, should stay as a reliable backup option. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, however, has struggled to make the right-back position his own and with the emergence of Diogo Dalot, it would make sense for Man Utd to cash in on him. Dalot himself should be kept as competition and cover for potential injuries.
Raphael Varane, despite his recent return to form, has an unreliable injury record and could be sold to raise funds. Harry Maguire, although he has shown his place in the team, should be moved on as part of a center-back overhaul. Victor Lindelof, with a year left on his contract, should also be sold to avoid losing him for free.
Lisandro Martinez, considered the best defender at the club, should be an integral part of Man Utd’s future but needs a long-term defensive partner and must stay injury-free. Jonny Evans, despite his contributions, should be moved on due to his age. Luke Shaw, when fit, is one of the best left-backs and should stay, but a new left-back should be considered for competition.
Tyrell Malacia, who was meant to provide competition for Shaw, has been plagued by injuries, but his age and small wage make him worth giving the benefit of the doubt. Casemiro, who has dropped off this season, should be moved on to free up space for younger midfielders. Christian Eriksen, brought in on a free transfer, can be sold to improve Man Utd’s position from a Financial Fair Play perspective.
Bruno Fernandes, the club’s best player since his arrival, should undoubtedly stay. Kobbie Mainoo, a Carrington product, has been transformative for Man Utd’s midfield and should be built around. Mason Mount, despite his injury setbacks, has shown promise and should be given the benefit of the doubt.
Scott McTominay, a brilliant plan B off the bench, should be kept around. Sofyan Amrabat’s loan transfer has not worked out, and it would be best to let it expire. Marcus Rashford, despite recent controversy and form concerns, is a player who can deliver 30 goals and should be kept.
Alejandro Garnacho has made the right-wing his own and should stay as a promising talent. Rasmus Hojlund has found his form and should be retained as a key attacking player. Antony, despite a high price tag, has not lived up to expectations and could be let go. Anthony Martial, whose contract expires in the summer, has been a drain on club resources and should be released.
Amad Diallo, given a chance to play, could prove his worth and should be given the benefit of the doubt. The future of the squad remains uncertain, but with the investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, it is clear that changes are underway. The club will need to carefully evaluate each player’s contribution and make decisions accordingly to build a successful team for the future.