The Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS era starts this summer. (Image: Getty)
Manchester United are set for a busy summer at the start of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era as INEOS oversee their first transfer window in charge of football operations. There is plenty of work to do on and off the pitch to ensure the worst Premier League and Champions League seasons in the club’s history won’t be repeated.
Significant movement regarding incomings and outgoings is expected at Old Trafford at the start of a new chapter for United following over a decade of mediocrity post-Sir Alex Ferguson.
Express Sport looks at three things that must happen before the start of the 2024/25 campaign for this summer to be considered a success.
INEOS’ first manager
United have reportedly decided to sack Erik ten Hag before he enters the third and final year of his contract, with official confirmation likely next week.
The Red Devils would join a plethora of European heavyweights hunting the right fit from a vast pool of options, available or not.
So, INEOS’ first task of the summer? Appoint a new head coach. Not a manager, a head coach. Someone whose primary job will be to oversee training and team selection.
Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna – said to be holding out for the United post after initial talks – would fit that mould.
Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino, Graham Potter and Thomas Frank have also been linked, but McKenna’s return to Old Trafford would be as exciting as it would be intriguing.
Man Utd will need to replace Erik ten Hag. (Image: Getty)
Kobbie Mainoo’s partner
Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence from academy hopeful to a crucial first-team player has been one of it not the shining light of a dismal season.
The 19-year-old midfielder is United’s future, and INEOS must shape their rebuild around him for years to come. With Casemiro and Sofyan Amrabat set to leave, a new defensive midfielder must be the transfer priority.
A centre-back or two and a striker are also necessary, but United need a physical, athletic midfielder to support Mainoo’s development.
Everton’s Amadou Onana should be on the shortlist. As should Sporting Lisbon’s Morten Hjulmand and AS Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana.
Three headline sales
United have grown a reputation for failing to offload players since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, and that is a problem INEOS will need to fix.
Player sales will be required to adhere to FFP and PSR limitations, and INEOS reportedly intend to host a clear-out at Old Trafford over the summer.
Most first-team players will be in the shop window. Of those expected to depart, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood are the headline names that can generate the most funds.
United reportedly value the trio at a combined £79million, which would go a long way in ensuring there is a large enough transfer kitty to recruit much-needed upgrades.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1903285/Man-Utd-dream-transfer-window-Kobbie-Mainoo