Manchester United are about to enter a new era, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe expected to imminently announce his involvement in the club. So with that in mind, here is our prediction of how United could look after the January transfer window after Ratcliffe’s impact.
Manchester United’s takeover saga finally seems to be reaching some sort of conclusion this week and it was suggested that INEOS’ Sir Dave Brailsford would be at Carrington on Monday.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe faces a baptism of fire at the club with several issues at United urgently requiring some attention. But most urgently of all will be helping Erik ten Hag in the upcoming January transfer window.
The Dutchman has United within seven points of top spot so this season could yet be a success, and there are a few moves which the Old Trafford side have been linked with making which could instantly improve.
The financial situation at the Theatre of Dreams is perilous, however, the sale of a few top senior players; such as Jadon Sancho, Casemiro and Raphael Varane could open the door for some incoming.
So here is how we see United looking come February…
Manchester United’s potential XI under Ratcliffe
First up is Andre Onana, he absolutely should be continuing in his role in goal. Arriving from Inter Milan during the summer for an initial £42.8 million. Despite early struggles, he has looked solid in recent games and has kept back to back clean sheets in the Premier League.
Moving into defence, at right back it wouldn’t be too crazy to suggest that a new signing would be made. However, for the rest of this season at least Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are likely to fight it out, we are giving the former the edge.
At centre-half, Varane looks all but done with Ten Hag choosing Jonny Evans over him which could indicate a January sale could transpire. If this happens, it could be all but nailed on that Jean-Clair Todibo arrives from OGC Nice. Alongside Todibo would be a returning Lisandro Martinez.
Another return from injury is likely to find himself right back in the starting line-up, Luke Shaw. His absence has been duly noted this season and has probably been the biggest weakness.
In midfield it gets interesting, Casemiro could be on his way out while Sofyan Amrabat hasn’t really set the league alight. So if Casemiro is sold, we think Amadou Onana is the perfect replacement and has even discussed United interest lately while a fee of £50m is expected. Alongside him, all signs are pointing toward Kobbie Mainoo being a first team regular.
Moving into the attack, there is no place for Antony, with Alejandro Garnacho on the right. His abilities suit the right and would allow him to simply try and beat his man and cross to Hojlund while he develops. On the left, Marcus Rashford should find form sooner or later to fit into this team.
Behind the striker, captain Bruno Fernandes remains and with a balanced and technically proficient midfield behind him, he will thrive. His combination play with our striker Rasmus Hojlund should only benefit and improve from this, the only option up top, with goals are destined to come.
It is important to stress, this would just be the first phase of Ratcliffe’s ‘rebuild’. But that’s the point. It won’t be a full scale overhaul, these will be gradual tweaks, with more to come.
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