The Red Devils have suffered one of their worst seasons and are out of Europe next season
Manchester United are once again under pressure after closing out its most disastrous season in the Premier League era. The team not only finished outside the European spots, but also lost the Europa League final, deepening a sense of failure that extends beyond the results.
The atmosphere on the Asian tour reflects that slump: a defeat against a Southeast Asian team has further set off alarm bells. The visit to Mumbai was more of an emotional respite than a footballing commitment, and the upcoming friendly against Hong Kong seems like an opportunity to gloss over the disaster. But statements from one of the veterans in the dressing room have shaken the foundations of Old Trafford even further.
Manchester United veteran hints at massive changes at Old Trafford
Harry Maguire did not mince his words when he warned that the club will undergo a major shake-up in the summer. He spoke clearly about the imminent departure of several players and expressed his desire to see new faces in the dressing room. The Englishman pointed out that this responsibility lies with both the management and the current players. The 32-year-old’s message was clear: those who are not up to the new project will have to step aside. The departures of Eriksen, Lindelöf and Evans have already been confirmed.
Harry Maguire talks about changes at Manchester United
“We will make a lot of changes in the summer at the club. There will be a lot of players who leave and hopefully a lot of players will come in. And that’s down to the club to make sure they get that right and it’s down to us players to make sure that we are the ones that are involved.”
Maguire is not exaggerating. The team need urgent rebuilding. The lack of tactical identity, passivity in many games, and a squad divided between worn-out players and young players with no space have created an unsustainable cocktail. It is not enough to sign big names; internal dynamics must be changed. The club have to find players who arrive with hunger, character and commitment.
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But there is a second, less obvious interpretation. Maguire speaks as if his permanence were guaranteed, when his performance has also been questioned. He could be part of the clean-up he anticipates. Therefore, although Maguire’s message is reasonable, it also reflects a contradiction: the desire for renewal from someone who represents the old.
Real self-criticism begins with oneself. United do not just need to go out into the market; they need courageous decisions from within. If the club repeat mistakes and retain names out of nostalgia or status, next season will be the same or worse. Maguire is right in essence, but the change must begin with himself.