Manchester United enter the upcoming season with genuine ambitions to win the title. It is the first time we can say this in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure as boss.
After a promising summer, it is time to be optimistic. While we know there are flaws for United to address, including a need to sign a defensive midfielder, this side still has the ability to go all the way.
In the spirit of pre-season positivity, here is a look at five reasons why United can win the title this season…
Progress beckons
Third in 2019/20, second in 2020/21, first in 2021/22? Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are edging closer to to title number 21.
This team is constantly improving and evolving and United have been able to keep hold of Paul Pogba despite concern he could be sold.
United came close last season and topped the league in January, giving the team a taste, fuelling motivation for the season ahead. It will also have given the team plenty of belief.
Last season United made a huge step forward, from simply battling for top four, to fighting for the title. Toppling City won’t be easy, but this United side is talented enough to take the next step.
One of the keys to success is getting supporters back at Old Trafford, which will lift the home form which saw just 10 out of 19 league wins last season.
Unbelievable attack
United’s big strength is the varied options in attack. Edinson Cavani scored 17 goals last season and will want to improve this time around and finish with a trophy.
Mason Greenwood will kick on too, and Marcus Rashford will return refreshed after his operation. Anthony Martial cannot go backwards, and if he can return to the form which saw him net 23 times two years ago, he will be a top asset.
The key to making them all tick is Jadon Sancho, United’s new £73 million signing. The winger can unlock defences and create chances, while also taking pressure off Bruno Fernandes, who scored 28 goals last season and provided 18 assists.
This United side have the potential to hit teams for four or five goals regularly, and should be very entertaining to watch.
Strength in depth
United have very impressive strength in depth, with talented young players like Amad and Anthony Elanga capable of chipping in with valuable contributions.
The teams’ midfield options are varied, and defensively United will have two top quality players for every position, whether it be Diogo Dalot or Kieran Trippier providing competition at right-back.
Even up front the battle between Cavani, Martial, and Greenwood will keep everybody on their toes. This season could be another one with more than 50 games in all competitions if United go far in the cups. United have the squad to handle it.
There is also plenty of academy talent able to contribute if need be, with the likes of Shola Shoretire and Hannibal looking to take steps forward.
Improving players
One of the exciting aspects of this Manchester United team is that so many players have another level to reach after last season. Anthony Martial is one we expect to majorly kick on.
Another is Donny van de Beek, who looks primed for a big season in midfield as he looks to show what he is really capable of.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka showed attacking improvement towards the end of last season, and in pre-season, and he will want to continue this especially if he has extra competition.
Edinson Cavani can still get better too. He is a player who will feed off the Old Trafford crowds and add an extra spark to his game.
The added competition for places and arrival of Jadon Sancho will raise performance levels. A fully fit Rashford can remind people what he is capable of too.
Varane strengthening the defence
The biggest improvement Manchester United have made is in defence, with Raphael Varane joining the club.
Varane’s experience, pace, and aerial strength makes him an upgrade on Victor Lindelof.
One of United’s weaknesses last season was defending set pieces. Varane will help with that, as will new set piece coach Eric Ramsay.
United had to come from behind a lot to win last season. A stronger defence will avoid that, and set United on course to plenty of routine victories.
It was Sir Alex Ferguson who said ‘Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles’, and United’s investment in Varane could be the missing piece.
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