Manchester United is undergoing a major transformation for the 2025/26 season, with manager Rúben Amorim implementing sweeping changes during the US pre-season in Chicago. Defender Luke Shaw, a team leader, praised the Portuguese coach’s tough decisions, which saw 13 players, including Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho, leave the squad to create a more united and competitive team. The overhaul follows a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, with United finishing 15th in the Premier League and suffering early exits in competitions. The moves aim to restore the club’s prominence in English football, with the season opener set for August 17 against Arsenal.
The US pre-season has been a testing ground for Amorim’s vision. United defeated West Ham 2-1 in a recent friendly and will face Bournemouth and Everton before returning to England. Shaw emphasized the coach’s demanding mindset, which prioritizes teamwork and eliminates lack of effort.
- New signings: Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Diego León bolster the attack.
- Confirmed exits: 13 players, including Rashford (loaned to Barcelona) and Antony.
- Stated goal: Compete for the Premier League title.
- Overcoming challenges: A more cohesive squad after a season of disunity.
New foundations for Manchester United
Rúben Amorim’s overhaul began with bold moves. After a season where United finished just three spots above the Premier League relegation zone, the Portuguese manager identified the need for drastic change. The departure of 13 players, including Marcus Rashford, loaned to Barcelona after clashing with Amorim, reflects a commitment to building a squad without room for individualism. Shaw, a mainstay in the team, stressed that the new philosophy emphasizes unity and collective effort.
In a Chicago press conference, Shaw described Amorim as uncompromising, demanding full commitment from players. The decision to sideline players like Rashford, publicly criticized for “not giving his all,” underscores the coach’s rigorous approach.
- Amorim’s philosophy: Emphasis on teamwork and tactical discipline.
- Squad impact: Departures of big names pave the way for new leaders.
- Internal support: Players like Shaw back the proposed changes.
The overhaul also saw Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, and Jadon Sancho training separately from the main squad. These tough calls, though controversial, have been embraced by the remaining players, who see them as a chance to rebuild the club’s identity.
Strategic signings for 2025/26
While overseeing exits, Amorim bolstered the squad with key signings. The arrival of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford for £71 million (around R$531 million) is a highlight of the transfer window. The Cameroonian striker, who scored 20 goals in the last Premier League season, has already joined the team in pre-season. Matheus Cunha, formerly of Wolverhampton, and Diego León, a Paraguayan full-back, also arrived, adding depth to the attack and defense.
Mbeumo is seen as a key solution to United’s lackluster attack, which managed only 44 goals in 38 games last season. His versatility as a winger or striker offers tactical flexibility for Amorim.
- Bryan Mbeumo: 20 goals and 8 assists in the 2024/25 Premier League.
- Matheus Cunha: Signed for R$480 million, enhances playmaking.
- Diego León: Full-back with potential to become a starter.
- Integration: New players already featuring in US friendlies.
Fans, eager for impactful signings, have reacted positively to the new additions. Social media posts highlight expectations that Mbeumo and Cunha will form a potent attack alongside Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Højlund.
Pre-season as a benchmark
The US friendlies are a proving ground for the changes. The 2-1 win over West Ham showed improved tactical organization, with faster transitions and a stronger defense—key weaknesses last season. Upcoming matches against Bournemouth on Wednesday and Everton over the weekend will further test the team’s cohesion before the Premier League opener.
Shaw, now the longest-serving player after the departures, believes the pre-season is shaping a tighter squad. He stressed the importance of unity ahead of the Arsenal clash.
- Bournemouth friendly: Wednesday, July 30, at 10:30 PM (Brasília time).
- Everton match: Final test before returning to England.
- Tactical focus: Amorim emphasizes quick transitions.
The US tour also brought off-field highlights. United launched a kit inspired by the 1990s “snowflake” design, boosting fan engagement. The move reflects efforts to reconnect with supporters after a frustrating year.
Fan and expert reactions
Amorim’s overhaul has sparked mixed reactions. Fans celebrate the new signings and the coach’s no-nonsense approach, but some analysts question the high cost of transfers like Mbeumo’s £71 million deal. However, the focus on players already adapted to the Premier League is seen as a smart move, especially after past signings struggled to adjust.
Social media reflects fan optimism about the club’s new direction. The exits of Rashford and Antony, though divisive, are viewed as proof of Amorim’s commitment to performance over reputation. Shaw’s comments about the squad feeling like “a real family” reinforce this sentiment.
- Fan support: Social media praises Amorim’s tough stance.
- Minor criticism: Some question Mbeumo’s transfer fee.
- Expectations: Aiming to secure a European competition spot.
Ambitious Premier League goals
Shaw was clear that United’s goal is to challenge for the Premier League title, despite skepticism after last season’s 15th-place finish. The target is bold but reflects the squad’s confidence in Amorim’s changes. The Portuguese manager, known for his success with young squads at Sporting, is implementing an intense, organized playing style.
The opener against Arsenal, a title contender, will be an immediate test. Amorim is banking on a mix of experience, with players like Shaw and Fernandes, and youth, with signings like Mbeumo and León.
- Main goal: Premier League title or Champions League qualification.
- Tough opener: Arsenal match on August 17.
- Playing style: Intensity and quick transitions define Amorim’s approach.
Long-term investment and planning
The 2025 transfer window has been one of United’s busiest in years. Beyond Mbeumo and Cunha, the club is reportedly targeting a new striker in the coming weeks, with spending already exceeding R$1 billion. This underscores the Premier League’s status as football’s financial powerhouse.
Brentford, which sold Mbeumo, plans to reinvest in new talent, sticking to its effective scouting model. For United, the challenge is turning this heavy investment into immediate results, a task Amorim must deliver starting in August.
- Total investment: Over R$1 billion in transfers.
- Strategy: Targeting Premier League-proven players.
- Next steps: Pursuit of a new striker to complete the attack.