Rock bottom is a lonely place when you’ve tasted the success Manchester United have over the last two decades. The good news for United is, right now at least, there are four teams worse off than the Red Devils in the Premier League table.
Ironically, one of those sides are Wednesday night’s victors, Tottenham Hotspur. But there’s no time for dwelling, as Ruben Amorim, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS chums cannot afford to miss a beat with the United rebuild this summer.
It starts at the full-time whistle this afternoon, when United conclude their torrid 2024/25 campaign at home to Aston Villa in the Premier League. It’s a fixture that could mark the last outing in red and white for as many as nine United players.
Bruno Fernandes
Let’s start with the talisman, Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese ace set pulses racing when he claimed he’d be happy to leave the club in the summer, if United were looking to cash in. Fernandes has been the only shining light for United throughout the season, with the 30-year-old having notched up 38 goal contributions across all competitions. But with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia having been mooted, will the midfield maestro be waving to the United fans for the final time later today?
Alejandro Garnacho
Then there’s Alejandro Garnacho, who also opened up about his future following Wednesday’s loss. The winger admitted he was unhappy about his playing time in the final, having played a key role for United in the Europa League this term. Given that he counts as an academy prospect as well, Garnacho’s sale could prove valuable for PSR purposes.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee
There’s a growing sense that at least one, if not both, of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee will depart when the season finishes. The bottom line is, neither have been good enough in the final third and United’s tally of 42 goals in the Premier League this season epitomises that. With Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha having been linked, United may look to free up room in the attacking department.
Andre Onana
There was little Andre Onana could’ve done about the scrappy Brennan Johnson strike that proved decisive against Spurs, but the goalkeeper has been far from perfect throughout his time at the club. Errors have plagued his stint between the sticks, with talk United could be prepared to cut their losses and sign a new shot-stopper.
Casemiro
“Leave the football before the football leaves you” was the call made by Jamie Carragher aimed at Casemiro earlier in the season and after another evening of chasing shadows in Bilbao, it could be time for the Brazilian to fulfil the prophecy. United need more steel in midfield, something they aren’t getting from a 33-year-old.
Victor Lindelof, Christian Eriksen and Jonny Evans
And finally, the trio of out-of-contract players. It’s indicative of United’s current state that Victor Lindelof, Christian Eriksen and Jonny Evans - three players who haven’t been of use to the club for some time - are still on their books. While undoubtedly loyal servants, it’s unlikely they’ll be missed too much when they head for the exit door.