After finishing 15th last season, one of the club’s worst in decades, Manchester United wasted no time. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, they went all-in to rebuild. The summer felt urgent, with a focus on youth, speed, and energy. Even without Champions League football, the Reds made it clear: they’re not over yet and are ready to fight back.
Firepower Injected at the Front of Manchester United
The attack got a major makeover. Matheus Cunha became United’s first big signing this summer. The Brazilian forward arrived from Wolves for around £62.5 million, officially signing a long-term deal. Cunha quickly called it “a dream” to join United and wants to help the club return to the top.
Next came Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. Sources put the fee at more than £70 million with add-ons. Mbeumo shared that joining United was always his dream, calling the club “the team whose shirt I wore growing up.”
The headline arrival, though, was Benjamin Sesko, signed from RB Leipzig for a fee reported to be up to £74 million, including bonuses. Sesko, the top U23 scorer in Europe last season, pledged to help United “fly high again”.
Youth and Depth at the Back
The rebuild didn’t stop in attack. United also invested in youth for the defense. Diego Leon joined from Cerro Porteno, while academy forward Enzo Kana-Biyik signed from Le Havre and was immediately sent out on loan to gain experience. These moves suggest United are laying foundations for the future, as well as the present.
Smart Exits to Balance the Books
As new talent arrived, old names needed to move on. Marcus Rashford left on loan for Barcelona, while Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and others are also expected to depart. With over £200 million spent, trimming the squad and managing finances became essential. United are clearly focused on long-term stability as well as short-term progress.
Early Season Echoes of Potential
United’s season opener against Arsenal didn’t go their way, staged at Old Trafford. They lost 1–0, but Amorim was upbeat. He loved the aggression, the pressing, and the energy. He praised new signings like Cunha and Mbeumo for making early impacts. However, defensive lapses and the goalkeeper’s performance raised concerns that still need fixing.
Mental Fortitude Matters for Manchester United
Harry Maguire shared insights into Old Trafford’s pressure cooker environment. He warned that players should be prepared to face not just massive fans, but cynical rival supporters. Still, he said Kamara’s leadership, especially Bruno Fernandes’s, helps shield team spirit. That emotional protection matters as much as what happens on the pitch.
💬 "I'm really proud of the players… but it's hard to lose a game like this."
Ruben Amorim's post-match reaction 👇
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 17, 2025
The Missing Link of Manchester United
No summer is perfect. Manchester United’s midfield still craves a creative anchor — someone to hold control and bring balance. They came close to signing Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, but that deal fell through, leaving that gap unfilled. Without that midfield presence, there’s a risk that energy and forward promise may not translate into wins consistently.
Verdict: A Work in Progress
Manchester United’s transfer window feels full of promise. Three exciting attacking signings, fresh youth additions, and well-timed exits show ambition and vision. Yet, gaps remain—mainly in midfield and defense. The show of quality is there, but it needs time to gel.
Author’s Note
This summer was all about second chances at United. The new faces bring pace, excitement, and hope. But rebuilding takes more than money—it takes time, patience, and cohesion. If Amorim can address the midfield gap soon and help these players click, there’s every reason to believe United’s revival isn’t just hype, but the start of a real journey back to glory.