With big-name exits and £150 million spent despite a 15th-place finish, what exactly is happening at Manchester United?
Rock Bottom? Or Just Another United Summer?
After a season that saw United finish 15th in the Premier League, you’d expect a bit of caution in the transfer window. Earnings dropped, deals got cut — particularly those tied to Champions League qualification — and confidence hit the floor. But somehow, the club has already splashed just under £150 million, and the window still has weeks to go.
Despite a fall in sporting performance, United continue to operate like a top-six European powerhouse, thanks to their global brand. They ranked fourth in revenue in the 2023/24 season, and they’re likely to crack the top six again in 2024/25 — a testament to their enduring commercial strength.
Incoming Talent: Kuna, Mbeumo & a Hint of Hope
Two of the biggest transfer stories so far are Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo — both players offering flair, forward energy, and a spark that United desperately lacked last season.
In a pre-season game against Leeds, Cunha made his unofficial debut, showing composure on the ball, drawing fouls, and progressing play with confidence. His pressing? A bit shaky. But it’s early days.
Mbeumo, though not officially announced yet, is as good as confirmed. He and Cunha combined for 35 goals and 13 assists last season — numbers that make United fans cautiously optimistic.
The key will be whether they can connect with whichever striker leads the line — likely Rasmus Højlund, who, despite struggles in hold-up play, continues to make smart runs that often go unnoticed.
The Bomb Squad: Exiles After Dark
And then there’s the “Bomb Squad” — a term you’d expect in rugby (Tasha’s a Springboks fan, FYI), but in United’s case, it’s used quite differently. These are the players United reportedly want out and have literally pushed to the shadows — asked to train after 5:00 p.m., separate from the first team.
The list includes:
- Anthony
- Marcus Rashford
- Jadon Sancho
- Alejandro Garnacho
- Tyrell Malacia
- (Possibly) André Onana
Some names sting more than others. Rashford, for example, is apparently on his way to Barcelona, taking a significant pay cut — down to only €250,000 per week. The deal isn’t confirmed yet, but it’s close.
A Tale of Two Futures: Nostalgia and Necessity
For long-time fans, Rashford’s exit (alongside Anthony Martial) hits hard. They debuted the same season, full of promise, faces of the new era — now both on their way out. Rashford will be 29 next year, and realistically, this might be his last chance to make an England World Cup squad.
Sancho? There’s less sympathy. His lack of visible passion makes it hard to root for him. Garnacho is young and talented but is starting to show signs of immaturity. And Anthony… well, there’s not much to say there.
Malacia feels unfairly lumped in — no major issues beyond fitness and bad luck.
Midfield Maybes & Tactical Shifts
In midfield, things might get interesting. Bruno Fernandes will be back deeper, allowing his forward instincts to thrive in transition. With Cunha and Mbeumo ahead, there’s potential for fluid play — if it clicks.
Also in the mix:
- Casemiro (if he stays)
- Manuel Ugarte (recent signing)
- Kobbie Mainoo, who Tasha personally likes as a creative No. 10 when in form.
So… What Now?
For many fans, the motto going into the season is: “Expect nothing, be surprised by something.”
Tasha is back making United content — even if it’s sad content — and that’s a sign. Whether United implode or impress, it’ll be entertainment either way.
But this isn’t just about one club’s chaos. It’s a window into modern football — where financial muscle, legacy, and hope sometimes matter more than recent results.
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