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As Manchester United navigates a period of significant change under new management, the club's future hinges on a critical squad overhaul. Following a disastrous 2024/2025 season that saw the team finish in a deeply disappointing 15th place in the Premier League, there is a widespread consensus that major decisions must be made regarding the playing staff. With the club aiming to rebuild and adhere to strict Financial Fair Play regulations, every player's future is under scrutiny. The new manager, Ruben Amorim, is reportedly keen to create a squad that not only fits his tactical vision but also possesses the hunger and consistency to compete at the highest level. This poll aims to gauge fan sentiment on which players should be part of this necessary clear-out. From high-earning veterans whose form has waned to young prospects who have struggled to make an impact, the options on the table are varied and complex. We invite you to consider each player's performance, contract situation, and fit within the new manager's system. Please cast your vote by selecting all the players you believe should be let go in 2025 as Manchester United prepares for a fresh start.
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André Onana's time at Manchester United has been a period of significant scrutiny and could be a major talking point in 2025. While he has been the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, his performances have been inconsistent. In the 2024/2025 season, he conceded 44 goals and kept 9 clean sheets in 34 Premier League matches, statistics that reflect the team's overall defensive struggles. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, some have questioned his ability to consistently perform at the highest level, and he has been criticized for some high-profile errors that have directly led to goals. Financially, a move for Onana could be beneficial for the club. The goalkeeper signed a five-year contract in 2023 with an option for an additional year, earning an annual salary of over £6 million. Manchester United, having finished 15th in the Premier League, saw a 25% pay cut clause activated for players' salaries due to failing to qualify for the Champions League, which reportedly "shocked" Onana and led to him having talks with club management. With the club needing to rebuild and a number of potential replacements linked, selling Onana could allow United to recoup a portion of the £42.9 million transfer fee and free up a considerable amount of the wage bill to be used elsewhere in the squad.
Altay Bayindir's role at Manchester United has been a secondary one, which could lead to discussions about his future in 2025. As a back-up goalkeeper to André Onana, his playing time has been limited. During the 2024/2025 season, he made a total of 10 appearances across all competitions, including 4 in the Premier League. While he did manage a crucial penalty save in the FA Cup, his overall lack of game time might lead the club to consider his position as they rebuild the squad. The financial aspect is also a factor. Altay Bayindir's contract runs until June 2027, with an option for an additional year. His annual salary is $1.82 million. With Manchester United potentially looking to make significant changes and rebalance their squad under the new manager, moving on from a second-choice goalkeeper could be a way to free up funds. This would allow the club to either invest in a new backup goalkeeper or allocate the saved wages to other areas of the team that need strengthening.
Amad Diallo's future at Manchester United is a complex and nuanced issue, despite an impressive 2024/2025 season. He emerged as one of the few bright spots in a difficult campaign for the club, registering 8 goals and 6 assists in 26 Premier League appearances. His crucial goals, including a winner against Manchester City, and a hat-trick against Southampton, made him a fan favorite. However, with the club undergoing a major overhaul under new manager Ruben Amorim, and a number of new signings, including Matheus Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee, Amad's position in the squad may not be as secure as his performances suggest. From a financial perspective, a sale could be a strategic move. Amad recently signed a new contract with an annual salary of around $6.24 million. However, with the club needing to raise funds for further additions and to stay compliant with Financial Fair Play regulations, selling a player with a high transfer value could be a necessary step. Reports have suggested that other clubs, including AC Milan, are interested in the winger, and a sale could generate a significant profit that could be reinvested in a more established player who perfectly fits the manager's long-term tactical vision.
Ayden Heaven's first season at Manchester United has been a whirlwind, and his future at the club is a point of intrigue. Arriving in February 2025 from Arsenal for a compensation fee in the region of £1.5 million, the young defender was immediately integrated into the first-team squad. He showed promise in his limited appearances, including his Premier League debut, and was a part of a defensive unit that, despite its struggles, saw him praised for his on-the-ball ability. However, the team's overall poor performance—finishing 15th in the Premier League—means that a comprehensive squad rebuild is necessary, and even promising young players may not be immune to a critical evaluation. From a financial and squad-building perspective, letting go of Heaven could be a pragmatic decision. While his transfer fee was relatively small, Manchester United may need to generate funds to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. Heaven's departure, while potentially disappointing for some fans who saw his promise, could free up a roster spot and allow the new management to bring in a more experienced, proven defender who is a perfect fit for the team's long-term tactical vision.
Bruno Fernandes has been a talismanic figure for Manchester United since his arrival, but his future could be a key point of contention for the club in 2025. While he remains a creative force, there is a growing debate about whether his individual brilliance has truly translated into sustained team success. With the club facing a need for a comprehensive rebuild under new management and a poor 15th-place finish in the 2024/2025 season, the possibility of cashing in on their captain has become a realistic, if difficult, prospect. The financial implications are significant. At 31 years old and earning a substantial salary, Fernandes represents a major asset. Reports indicate he was a target for Saudi clubs earlier in the summer, with bids of up to £100 million being suggested. A sale at that valuation would provide a massive influx of funds, which could be crucial for a team struggling with Financial Fair Play regulations. This money could be reinvested to acquire several new players, enabling a more balanced squad overhaul rather than relying on one key player who may be past his peak.
Diogo Dalot's future at Manchester United is a topic of discussion, particularly given the club's struggles in the 2024/2025 season. Despite a new contract signed in 2023 that runs until 2028 with an option for an additional year, there is speculation about his suitability for the new manager's tactical system. Some reports suggest that Dalot is not a natural fit for Ruben Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation, which could make him a candidate for a potential transfer. Although he has been a consistent performer, questions about his long-term role could arise as the club looks to reshape the squad. The financial aspect of any potential sale could also be a motivating factor. Dalot earns an annual salary of approximately $4.42 million, which, while not as high as some other players, still represents a significant outlay. With a number of new signings and a need to balance the books, the club may see an opportunity to sell a player who, while valued for his leadership and mentality, might not perfectly align with the new manager's vision. A transfer could allow United to recoup a fee for a player entering his prime and reinvest those funds elsewhere in the squad.
Marcus Rashford's position at Manchester United has become increasingly uncertain, making him a strong candidate for a move in 2025. After a promising start to his career, his recent form has been a cause for concern, with a significant drop in productivity. In the 2024/2025 season, he recorded just six goals and three assists in 25 Premier League appearances. This lack of output, combined with a public falling out with new manager Ruben Amorim over work rate and a series of disciplinary issues, has led to him being loaned out to Barcelona for the 2025/2026 season with an option to buy. The financial and squad-building aspects of a permanent transfer also make a strong case for letting him go. With Rashford on a lucrative contract worth approximately $15.6 million annually, moving on from him would free up a substantial amount of the wage bill. This money could be used to acquire new players who fit the new manager's system and vision for the club. The reported £26 million buy-out option in his loan deal with Barcelona, while a significant drop from his previous valuation, would still provide a valuable injection of funds for a rebuilding Manchester United squad.
Mason Mount's tenure at Manchester United has been largely defined by injuries, which could be a major factor in the club's decision-making in 2025. His first season was heavily impacted by fitness issues, and while he did get a run in the team towards the end of the 2024/2025 season, scoring three goals, his overall appearances have been limited. A series of injuries, including a thigh, head, and muscle injuries in 2024 and a hamstring injury that caused him to miss 20 games from December 2024 to March 2025, have raised questions about his long-term durability and ability to consistently contribute to the squad. From a financial perspective, letting go of Mount could free up a significant portion of the club's wage bill. His contract, signed in 2023, is a five-year deal worth $65 million, with an average annual salary of $13 million. This makes him one of the highest earners at the club. Given his limited on-field contributions due to recurring injuries, a sale could be seen as a way to recoup some of the initial £55 million transfer fee and reallocate resources towards players who can provide more consistent availability and performance.
Noussair Mazraoui's first season at Manchester United has been a busy one, but his future may be a point of consideration for the club in 2025. The Morocco international made 57 appearances in his debut season, showcasing his versatility by playing across various positions. He came in second in the Players' Player of the Year vote, just behind Bruno Fernandes. However, a major point of consideration could be the team's overall poor performance, finishing 15th in the Premier League, which might lead the club to reassess its entire squad, including players who were regular starters. Financially, a move could also make sense for the club. Mazraoui joined in August 2024 for a fee of around £17.2 million. He is on a contract until June 2028, with an option for an additional year, and earns an annual salary of approximately $9.3 million. Given the club's need to rebuild and potentially reallocate resources to other areas of the squad, a sale could be a way to recoup some of the initial transfer fee and free up a significant portion of the wage bill.
Alejandro Garnacho's future at Manchester United has become a complex issue, despite him being a fan favorite and a product of the club's academy. While his raw talent is undeniable and he has provided some memorable moments, his overall output in the 2024/2025 season has been a point of concern for a team that finished 15th in the Premier League. With just six goals and two assists in 36 league matches, questions have been raised about his consistency and end product. As a new manager looks to overhaul the squad, Garnacho's status as a dynamic but sometimes inconsistent attacker could make him a point of debate. From a financial perspective, a sale could be a highly strategic move for the club. Because Garnacho was acquired as a youth player, any transfer fee received for him would count as pure profit on the club's books, which is a significant advantage for a team needing to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. Reports suggest Manchester United are willing to accept a transfer fee in the range of £30 million to £50 million, and clubs like Chelsea and Juventus are reportedly interested. Selling Garnacho would not only provide a major financial boost for the club to fund a comprehensive rebuild, but it would also free up a roster spot for a player who might be a better fit for the new manager's system.
Antony's future at Manchester United has been a constant source of speculation, and his performance in the 2024/2025 season makes him a prime candidate to be let go. After a disappointing first half of the season where he struggled to justify his substantial transfer fee, he was loaned out to Real Betis in January. While he had a successful loan spell in Spain, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists, his lack of impact at Old Trafford and a reported "irreparable" rift with new manager Ruben Amorim over his work rate have put his position at the club in serious doubt. From a financial perspective, a sale would be a crucial step in the club's rebuild. Antony's initial transfer fee was a staggering £82 million, and his annual salary is around $5.46 million. Manchester United are now reportedly looking to sell him permanently, with a transfer fee of around £30 million being sought. This move would not only free up a significant portion of the wage bill but also provide vital funds for the club to invest in new players who are a better fit for the manager's system and vision.
Bryan Mbeumo arrived at Manchester United in the summer of 2025 as a highly-touted signing, but his presence could become a point of discussion for a club in a state of flux. The forward came off a sensational season with Brentford, where he scored 20 goals in 38 Premier League games. However, Mbeumo's arrival, along with other new attacking signings, was part of a significant squad overhaul following a disastrous 2024/2025 season where the club finished 15th. While Mbeumo's talent is undeniable, the club may need to continue making tough choices to rebuild and could be swayed by the opportunity to recoup a large transfer fee for a new signing. From a financial perspective, a sale could be a strategic move. Manchester United paid an initial fee of £65 million, rising to £71 million with add-ons, to secure his services. He also signed a five-year contract with an annual salary of approximately $7.8 million. If the new management were to decide that Mbeumo is not the long-term solution or that his style of play does not perfectly fit the team's evolving tactical vision, a sale would allow them to recoup a significant portion of their investment. This capital could then be used to address other areas of the squad that are still in need of strengthening.
Casemiro's tenure at Manchester United has been a roller coaster, and his future is a major point of discussion for 2025. While his debut season saw him as a vital presence in the midfield, his form and fitness have been a growing concern. The 2024/2025 season saw him struggle to keep up with the pace of the Premier League, with some critics noting a noticeable decline in his mobility. As a player now in his 30s, questions about his long-term suitability for a high-intensity league and a squad undergoing a major rebuild have become prominent. Financially, moving on from Casemiro would be a significant step for the club. He is one of the highest earners at Manchester United, with an annual salary of over $18 million. His current contract runs until 2026, and with the club struggling with Financial Fair Play regulations and looking to free up funds for new signings, his departure could provide a major financial boost. A potential transfer fee, while likely much lower than the initial £60 million paid to Real Madrid, could still provide valuable capital to a rebuilding squad, especially with clubs in Saudi Arabia reportedly interested in his services.
Chido Obi's future at Manchester United is a fascinating case, as he is a highly-touted academy prospect who has already been integrated into the first team. The young Danish forward, who arrived from Arsenal, made a number of appearances in the 2024/2025 season, including his first senior start in the Premier League. However, he struggled to find the back of the net, registering zero goals and zero assists in his limited senior outings. While he has been prolific at the youth level, the step up to the Premier League proved to be a difficult one. With a new manager overseeing a massive squad rebuild and the arrival of several other forwards, Obi's pathway to consistent playing time could be blocked. From a financial perspective, letting go of a young, unproven talent could be a strategic move for the club. With Manchester United needing to generate funds to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations and to continue their squad overhaul, selling a player with a high potential value could be an attractive option. While some fans may see his departure as a waste of talent, the club may view it as a way to raise crucial capital to invest in a more experienced, proven player who can immediately contribute to the first team's success.
Dan Gore's future at Manchester United is a point of discussion, despite his status as a promising academy graduate. While he was once seen as a key part of the club's midfield of the future alongside Kobbie Mainoo, his path to the first team has been consistently hampered by a lack of consistent playing time and unfortunate injury issues. After a brief loan spell at Port Vale in the 2023/2024 season, he joined Rotherham United on loan in January 2025 but was restricted to just three appearances due to a foot injury. This continuous cycle of being loaned out and struggling for fitness suggests that the new manager may not see him as a player who can immediately contribute to the club's rebuilding efforts. From a financial perspective, a sale of a homegrown talent like Gore would be a highly strategic move for a club needing to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. As a player with a good reputation in the youth ranks, he has a transfer value that could be turned into pure profit on the club's books. While his current annual salary of around $260,000 is not a major burden, a permanent transfer would provide a valuable influx of funds that could be used to invest in a more experienced and proven midfielder who can immediately help the team's struggling midfield.
Diego Leon's situation at Manchester United is a unique case, as he is a young player who has only recently arrived at the club. The Paraguayan left-back, signed in the summer of 2025, was brought in with a view to the future, with the club planning to integrate him into the first team and the academy. However, the club's new manager, Ruben Amorim, is undertaking a major squad rebuild after a disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League. While Leon has shown some promise in preseason games, his lack of experience at the highest level of European football could be a factor in any decision to let him go. From a financial perspective, a sale could be a strategic move. Manchester United paid a transfer fee of up to £7 million for the 18-year-old. Given the club's need to generate funds to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations and to invest in more established players, selling a young prospect could be a way to raise capital. While it would be a surprising move so soon after his arrival, it would allow the new management to reallocate resources to other areas of the squad that are in more immediate need of strengthening.
Ethan Wheatley's future at Manchester United is a point of discussion, despite his status as a promising academy graduate. While he has been a prolific scorer at the youth level, his transition to senior football has been challenging. After a brief loan spell at Walsall in the second half of the 2024/2025 season where he made just four appearances, he was loaned out again for the 2025/2026 season, this time to Northampton Town. This continuous loaning out suggests that the new manager, Ruben Amorim, may not see him as a player who can immediately contribute to the first team's rebuilding efforts. From a financial standpoint, letting go of a young player with a high potential value could be a strategic move. With Manchester United needing to raise funds for a squad overhaul and to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, a sale of a homegrown talent would represent pure profit on the club's books. While Wheatley signed a new long-term contract in March 2025, a permanent transfer could still be a viable option, allowing the club to reinvest the funds in a more experienced and proven striker who can immediately help the team.
Harry Amass is a highly-touted young talent, but his future at Manchester United could be a point of discussion in 2025. While the young defender showed promise in his limited senior appearances during the 2024/2025 season, making five Premier League appearances and featuring in European competitions, the club has decided to send him on loan for the upcoming season. With the new manager, Ruben Amorim, overseeing a major squad rebuild after a disappointing 15th-place finish, Amass's pathway to a regular first-team spot may be blocked by more experienced players and new signings. From a financial perspective, a sale of a homegrown talent like Amass would be a highly strategic move. With Manchester United needing to raise funds and comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, a transfer would be considered pure profit on the club's books. Although his current annual salary is a relatively low $260,000, his potential transfer value is a significant asset. While it would be a difficult decision for the club to part with a promising young player, it would provide a valuable influx of funds that could be used to invest in a more established defender who can immediately contribute to the team's overhaul.
Manchester United's decision on Harry Maguire's future in 2025 comes at a crossroads. The club recently triggered a one-year extension to his contract, which now runs until June 2026. This move was made to secure a leader and avoid losing him on a free transfer, despite new manager Ruben Amorim noting that Maguire needs to "improve his game on the pitch" and as a leader. The team's poor performance in the 2024/2025 season, finishing 15th in the Premier League and failing to secure a European spot, has put the spotlight on the squad's shortcomings, with Maguire being a part of a defense that struggled. Despite a solid preseason and a focus on tactical training under Amorim, the defensive issues that plagued the team last season have reemerged, which could be a factor in any decision to let go of Maguire. While his performances improved under the new manager's 3-4-3 system, helping the club save money on a replacement, his high salary of around $9.875 million a year could be a point of consideration. With the club keen to rebuild and other players needing strengthening, moving on from a player with a significant contract could free up funds.
Jadon Sancho's situation at Manchester United has become a major point of discussion, making him a prime candidate for a permanent departure in 2025. After a public falling out with former manager Erik ten Hag, which saw him loaned back to Borussia Dortmund, his return to the Premier League with Chelsea on loan for the 2024/2025 season was a mixed bag. Despite helping Chelsea win the Conference League and scoring in the final, the London club opted against making the move permanent, reportedly due to a dispute over his wage demands, and paid a £5 million penalty fee to United. With a new manager in Ruben Amorim now at the helm, there appears to be no path back into the first team for Sancho, who has reportedly been training alone this summer. From a financial perspective, a sale would be a massive relief for Manchester United. Sancho is one of the highest earners at the club, with an average annual salary of around $13 million. His contract runs until 2026, and with the club struggling with Financial Fair Play regulations, offloading his wages is a priority. Reports indicate that Sancho is now willing to take a significant pay cut to secure a move, with clubs like Juventus and Borussia Dortmund showing interest. A sale would not only free up the wage bill but also allow the club to recoup a portion of the original £73 million transfer fee, providing crucial funds for the squad overhaul that the new management is keen to implement.
Joshua Zirkzee’s first season at Manchester United has been a point of contention, despite his high-profile arrival. Signed for a fee of approximately £36.5 million, the Dutch forward was seen as a key part of the new management's rebuilding plan. However, his on-field performance has fallen short of expectations, with just three goals and one assist in 32 Premier League appearances in the 2024/2025 season. This lack of production has led to questions about his suitability to lead the line for a club with title aspirations, especially given the team's overall struggles that resulted in a 15th-place finish. Financially, selling Zirkzee in 2025 could be a necessary step for the club. With the team needing to generate funds to continue their squad overhaul and stay compliant with Financial Fair Play regulations, offloading a recent acquisition who hasn't performed could be a pragmatic decision. The club may look to recoup a portion of the significant transfer fee they paid, providing vital capital to invest in other areas of the squad that need strengthening.
Kobbie Mainoo's status at Manchester United is a complex issue, making him a potential point of discussion in 2025. While he is a highly-regarded academy product, his playing time under new manager Ruben Amorim has been somewhat inconsistent. In the 2024/2025 season, he made 25 Premier League appearances but only started 19 of those matches. With the club finishing a disappointing 15th in the league, the manager has been critical of the team's tempo, and he has publicly stated that Mainoo needs to increase the pace of his play to become a regular starter. Financially, the club's desire to rebuild and meet Financial Fair Play regulations could play a role in any decision. Mainoo's current contract, which runs until 2027, has a relatively low annual salary of around $1.3 million. However, he and his representatives have been in stalled negotiations for a new long-term deal, reportedly demanding a significant increase to around £180,000 per week. With other clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham, reportedly interested and a potential valuation of up to £70 million, selling a homegrown player could be a way for United to generate a substantial profit to fund their squad overhaul.
Leny Yoro arrived at Manchester United with immense promise, but his first season at the club has been one of mixed fortunes, which could lead to discussions about his future in 2025. The French center-back, hailed as one of the best young defenders in world football, has struggled to find a consistent run of form. While he has shown flashes of his quality, he has also been part of a defensive unit that conceded 44 goals in the Premier League, contributing to the team's dismal 15th-place finish. His season was also disrupted by an injury he suffered during preseason, which delayed his debut. Financially, a move could be a logical step for the club, which needs to rebuild its squad and navigate Financial Fair Play regulations. Manchester United paid a significant transfer fee of approximately £52.2 million for Yoro. A sale, even if it meant taking a loss on their investment, could free up a substantial amount of capital. This would provide the new management with the necessary funds to pursue more experienced and proven defensive options, a move that could be seen as more beneficial for the team's immediate future.
Lisandro Martinez's time at Manchester United has been one of ups and downs, and his recurring injury problems could be a major factor in any decision to let him go in 2025. After an excellent first season, his 2023/2024 campaign was heavily disrupted by foot and calf injuries, limiting him to just 14 appearances. His bad luck continued into the 2024/2025 season when he suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in February, effectively ending his campaign and sidelining him for a significant period. While the club is hopeful for his return, his long-term fitness and ability to consistently contribute remain a significant question mark. From a financial perspective, a transfer could be a pragmatic move. Martinez, who signed a five-year contract in 2022 with an annual salary of over $6 million, represents a significant investment. With the club needing to rebuild and struggling with Financial Fair Play regulations, selling a player with a history of serious injuries could be a way to recoup a portion of the initial transfer fee and free up a considerable amount of the wage bill. This would allow the new management to invest in a more reliable defensive option to solidify a struggling backline.
Luke Shaw's long-term future at Manchester United has been a point of concern, largely due to a series of debilitating injuries. A key figure in the squad when fit, his presence on the field has become a rarity, with the 2024/2025 season severely disrupted by fitness issues. He missed a combined 46 games across the season due to a muscle injury, a calf injury, and a knee injury. While he did manage to make a return to the field, playing seven Premier League matches, his consistent absence raises a crucial question about his reliability and his ability to contribute consistently to a team that is in desperate need of stability. From a financial and squad-building perspective, letting go of a player with a history of serious injuries and a significant contract could be a necessary step for the club. Shaw's new five-year deal, signed in 2025, reportedly makes him one of the highest-earning defenders at the club, with an annual salary of approximately $7.8 million. Given the club's struggles with Financial Fair Play and their need to rebuild a squad that finished 15th in the league, a sale would free up a substantial amount of the wage bill. This would allow the new manager to invest in a more reliable and durable option at left-back, a position that has been a consistent problem for the club due to Shaw's frequent time on the sidelines.
Manuel Ugarte's debut season at Manchester United has been a point of contention, leading to speculation about his long-term future at the club. The Uruguayan midfielder, signed for an initial fee of €50 million, was brought in to provide steel and stability in the center of the park. However, his performances have not consistently matched expectations. In the 2024/2025 Premier League season, he registered only one goal and two assists in 29 appearances, and while his defensive stats are strong, his overall contribution was not enough to prevent the team's dismal 15th-place finish. This has led to questions about his suitability for a team looking to compete at the highest level. From a financial perspective, letting go of Ugarte could be a strategic move for the club. With Manchester United needing to raise funds for further additions and comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, a sale would allow them to recoup a significant portion of their initial investment. The club reportedly sees his potential value as a key asset, but with a number of new signings and a new manager in charge, the club may decide that the money could be better spent on a player who is a more perfect fit for their long-term tactical vision.
Matheus Cunha's move to Manchester United in the summer of 2025 was met with optimism, as the Brazilian forward arrived with a reputation for being an exciting and productive player in the Premier League. He had an excellent 2024/2025 season with Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring 15 Premier League goals. However, his future at United is far from secure. With the club finishing a dismal 15th in the league and in a state of flux under a new manager, even new signings could be under scrutiny. While Cunha's versatility is a plus, the team's overall poor performance could prompt a complete overhaul, and no player, regardless of recent arrival, is immune to being assessed for a potential move. Financially, a sale could be a pragmatic decision. Manchester United paid a reported £62.5 million to trigger his release clause and he signed a five-year deal with a substantial annual salary of around $9.36 million. Should the new management decide that Cunha is not a perfect fit for the long-term vision of the club, a sale would allow them to recoup a significant portion of the transfer fee and free up a considerable amount of the wage bill. This capital could then be reinvested in players who are seen as a better fit for the team's tactical system and long-term goals.
Matthijs de Ligt's first season at Manchester United has been a mixed bag, and his future at the club could be under scrutiny in 2025. While a promising player with a strong reputation, he has been part of a defensive unit that has struggled, contributing to the team's disappointing 15th-place finish. Some former Premier League players have criticized his performances and decision-making, suggesting his form has not been consistent since his time at Ajax. Despite his talent, questions about his long-term impact have arisen, especially as the new manager looks to solidify the squad's foundation. The financial commitment to de Ligt is also a significant factor. He joined the club in August 2024 for a fee of around £42.9 million and signed a five-year contract with an annual salary of over £10 million, making him one of the highest earners at the club. Given the need for a major squad overhaul and potential financial fair play constraints, the club may consider cashing in on a player who, despite his potential, has not yet fully justified the substantial investment. A sale could generate considerable funds to be used to address other pressing needs within the squad.
Patrick Dorgu's arrival at Manchester United in the winter of 2025 was met with significant optimism, as he was seen as a key signing for the new manager, Ruben Amorim. However, his on-field performance has been a mixed bag, and his future could be under review in 2025. Despite being a regular starter in the second half of the 2024/2025 season, making 12 Premier League appearances, he failed to register a single goal or assist. While he has shown potential in pre-season and received praise from Amorim, his lack of offensive output for a wing-back in a team that finished 15th in the league could be a cause for concern. From a financial standpoint, a sale could be a pragmatic decision. Manchester United paid an initial fee of approximately £30 million for Dorgu, and he is on a long-term contract with an annual salary of around $2.08 million. While his wages are not as high as some of the club's other players, a sale could be seen as a way to recoup some of the initial investment, especially if the new manager decides to change tactics or bring in a more experienced option. With the club needing to generate funds for a squad overhaul, Dorgu's departure could be a way to free up capital and reallocate resources.
Rasmus Hojlund's tenure at Manchester United has been a period of intense pressure and mixed results, making him a potential departure in 2025. Brought in for a significant fee of up to £72 million, the young striker was expected to be the long-term solution to the club's forward problems. However, his output has been a major concern, with just four goals in 32 Premier League appearances during the 2024/2025 season. This lack of production, coupled with the team's dismal 15th-place finish, has led to him being labeled a "misfiring striker," with some questioning if he can ever live up to his price tag. The financial implications of keeping or selling Højlund are a crucial consideration for the club. With Manchester United needing to raise funds for further additions and to stay compliant with Financial Fair Play regulations, a sale could be a necessary step. Reports suggest the club is now willing to take a huge loss on their investment, with a low asking price of just £30 million being set. While this would represent a significant financial hit, it would also provide much-needed capital for the new manager to bring in a new striker and other reinforcements to rebuild the squad.
Toby Collyer is a young, promising midfielder who has made his senior debut for Manchester United, but his long-term future may be up for debate in 2025. While he impressed on the club's 2024 preseason tour and has made a handful of appearances in cup competitions and the Premier League, his role in the first team is still not solidified. As a defensive midfielder, he is in a position where the club has a number of other options, and with a new manager looking to rebuild the squad after a disappointing season, there may not be a clear pathway to consistent playing time for a young player like Collyer. From a financial and squad-building perspective, a sale could be a strategic move. As a homegrown player, any transfer fee received for Collyer would count as pure profit on the club's books, which is a significant advantage for a team needing to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. While his annual salary of approximately $260,000 is not a major burden, his potential transfer value could provide a valuable influx of funds. Selling a young player with a good reputation but an unproven track record at the senior level could allow the club to invest in a more experienced, proven player who can immediately contribute to the team's overhaul.
Tom Heaton's situation at Manchester United presents a case for a potential departure, despite his recent contract extension. While his leadership and experience are highly valued by the new manager and coaching staff, his on-field contributions have been minimal. As a third-choice goalkeeper, his playing time has been extremely limited, with no Premier League appearances during his second spell at the club. His only senior outing in the 2024/2025 season was with the U21s in an EFL Trophy game. This lack of game time, coupled with the club's desire to build a more dynamic squad, could lead to a reassessment of his role. From a financial perspective, letting go of Heaton could free up a portion of the wage bill for a club that is actively looking to rebuild under a new manager. Despite his relatively modest annual salary of around $2.34 million, any savings would be beneficial. While his presence in the dressing room is seen as a positive, the club may ultimately decide that those funds could be better allocated to a player who can provide more tangible contributions on the pitch.
Tyler Fredricson, a product of the Manchester United academy, has had a gradual integration into the first team, but his long-term future may be a subject of debate in 2025. After recovering from a long-term injury, the young defender made his senior debut in April 2025 and even earned a new squad number, No. 33, for the current season, which suggests he is a part of the manager's plans. However, with the club's struggles in the 2024/2025 season, which saw them finish 15th, and a significant defensive overhaul underway, the club may need to make tough decisions about its young players to raise funds for more established talent. Financially, Fredricson's departure would not have a major impact on the club's finances, but any transfer fee received would be a valuable asset. With an average annual salary of around $260,000 and his contract running until June 2026, he represents a low-cost, high-potential asset. A sale, even for a relatively modest fee, would count as pure profit on the club's books, which is a significant advantage for a team needing to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. While it would be a shame to lose a homegrown player, the club may decide that the money could be better spent on a more experienced defender who can immediately contribute to the first team.
Tyrell Malacia's career at Manchester United has been heavily impacted by a long-term knee injury, making him a likely candidate to be let go in 2025. After an accomplished debut season in 2022/2023, he spent the entirety of the 2023/2024 season and the first half of the 2024/2025 season sidelined with a significant knee issue that required multiple operations. He eventually made a tentative return and was loaned to PSV Eindhoven for the second half of the 2024/2025 season. However, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot, and PSV declined to make his move permanent. The financial and tactical reasons for his departure are compelling. Malacia's current contract runs until 2026, with an option for an additional year, and his annual salary is around $3.9 million. With a new manager looking to rebuild the squad, and Malacia not featuring in the club's preseason tour, the club is reportedly struggling to find a suitor for him. A sale, even at a loss, would free up a portion of the wage bill and provide some capital for the new management to invest in a more reliable option at left-back, a position that has been a point of concern for the club.
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