Manchester United have experienced a mixed start to the 2025/26 season. Under Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils have not achieved the desired results, but there are clear signs of progress and optimism for the future.
The style of play and overall performances have improved noticeably. As new signings such as Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško continue to settle in, both the displays and the results are likely to improve further.
Meanwhile, in La Liga, one of the surprise packages of the season has been Elche. The newly promoted side have taken the Spanish top flight by storm with their impressive performances and, until recently, were unbeaten in the league.
Elche are catching the eye
Among their standout players is David Affengruber, who has caught the attention of top clubs across Europe. The Austrian defender has been a model of consistency at the back for Eder Sarabia’s team and has firmly established himself as a defensive cornerstone.
According to Fichajes, Manchester United are interested in signing the Elche star. At just 24 years old, Affengruber has a bright future ahead of him, and United are keen to add him to Amorim’s squad to strengthen their defensive options.
Sarabia reportedly considers Affengruber one of the pillars of his team and has urged the club not to entertain any offers until the end of the season. However, with growing interest from across Europe, Elche are aware that keeping hold of him will not be easy.
The Harry Maguire replacement?
🚨🆕 #Exclusive 🇦🇹 #Elche
Atlético Madrid have set sights on Elche’s rising wall David Affengruber!
🔺The 24-year-old CB is also wanted by Sevilla and Real Betis.
💰 Elche want around €15/20M for Affengruber. The price could rise if his LaLiga form continues to impress. pic.twitter.com/r6M54TNzV6
— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) October 7, 2025
Amorim’s tactical setup at United utilises three central defenders and two wing-backs. Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro have established themselves as reliable options, while Luke Shaw has also performed solidly since the start of the campaign.
However, Harry Maguire’s contract expires at the end of the season, and his future remains uncertain. Yoro and Ayden Heaven are still young and developing, while both Shaw and Lisandro Martínez have struggled with injuries.
Signing a player like Affengruber would represent an excellent move for Manchester United, especially given his current form. It remains to be seen whether the Austrian will be seen wearing a Red Devils shirt in the near future.