Man United Season Expectations 2025/26
Last season will go down as one of the worst in Manchester United’s modern history. Not only did the Red Devils finish a dismal 15th in the Premier League, but they also ended the campaign trophyless—compounding a decade of underachievement.
Head coach Rúben Amorim came under fire throughout the season, and the pressure intensified after a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Tottenham in the Europa League final. Two months on from their worst-ever Premier League finish, the problems haven’t disappeared. While pre-season preparations are underway, United have looked disjointed and sluggish in recent friendlies—lacking both motivation and energy.
Heavy Spending Amid Fierce Competition
The transfer window has seen a spending spree across the Premier League. Florian Wirtz’s move caused a stir, but it was Liverpool who made headlines by spending over €125 million on Ekitike, bringing their total summer outlay beyond €300 million.
United have responded in kind. Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership, the club seems determined to climb back to the top. The biggest splash so far? The signing of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford—an initial fee of €75 million, potentially rising to €82 million with bonuses. Mbeumo’s success story—signed by Brentford for just €6.5 million from Troyes—highlights the Red Devils’ need to pay premium prices to lure quality talent.
An Uphill Battle Without European Football
Being out of Europe makes United less attractive to top-tier players. The club hasn’t been a regular threat on the continental stage since the 2014/15 season, and their negotiating power now relies heavily on inflated salaries and big transfer fees.
The combined acquisition of Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and left-back Diego León has already cost the club close to €150 million in fixed fees alone. It’s a bold bet to fix a broken squad.
Rúben Amorim’s Gamble
Despite criticism, Amorim has gained some credit for attempting to rebuild the squad. However, he sparked confusion ahead of United’s first U.S. tour match against West Ham by backtracking on expected player exits. Speaking at a press conference, he suggested that Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia all still have futures at Old Trafford—contradicting earlier reports of their departures.
A Season of Redemption?
It’s clear that Manchester United’s goal for the 2025/26 season is simple but ambitious: finish in the top half of the Premier League and fight for UEFA Champions League qualification. After last year’s humiliation, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will the new signings prove their worth? Can Amorim rally the squad? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—all eyes will be on the red half of Manchester.
