Following the final day victory over Aston Villa, Ruben Amorim stated on the Old Trafford pitch that `good days are coming` for Manchester United. This declaration seemed optimistic given the club`s 15th-place Premier League finish and the disappointment of the Europa League final.
While the Portuguese manager has expressed his vision during a challenging first six months, significant squad improvements are essential for success. The current transfer window has started actively for the Red Devils, including the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, much to the displeasure of rival fans.
However, if United are to achieve a significant turnaround next season, these signings must be just the beginning. After a decade of poor recruitment, now is the time for a comprehensive rebuilding effort.
Considering this need for change, here is a potential starting lineup under the guidance of the newly appointed director of football, Jason Wilcox, if their transfer targets are met.
GK – Vanja Milinkovic-Savic
The performance of Andre Onana has been a major talking point. While his contribution to reaching the Europa League final can be debated, it`s clear United got there despite his form, not because of it. The 29-year-old, whose departure has been speculated, made five errors directly leading to goals last season and has struggled to inspire confidence since his 2023 move from Inter.
A potential solution could be Vanja Milinkovic-Savic. The 6ft 6in Serbian, previously briefly associated with United as a youth player, is strongly linked with a return. With only a year left on his contract at Torino, reports suggest he might be available for around £17m (€20m).
Last season, the 28-year-old conceded only 42 goals in 37 Serie A matches and ranked in the top 7% for save percentage among goalkeepers in Europe`s top five leagues. He appears to be a solid acquisition.
RCB – Leny Yoro
After an initial period hampered by injuries, Leny Yoro finished the season strongly, notably scoring his first goal for the club in an away match against Lyon.
At just 19 years old, he shows potential with his ability to drive forward from deep positions. Praised by figures like Rio Ferdinand as `the best in the world` for his age, Yoro is expected to become a consistent and important part of the defence next season.
CB – Harry Maguire
Having been removed as captain by Erik ten Hag in 2023 and linked with a move away, Harry Maguire`s subsequent resurgence has been impressive, capped by his late winning goal against Lyon at home.
Described as `perfect` for a back three system by Amorim, the 32-year-old, entering the final year of his contract, has shown he deserves a consistent place in the defence, assuming he can maintain his fitness.
Fitness permitting, of course.
LCB – Lisandro Martinez
On the topic of fitness, despite his current ACL injury, Lisandro Martinez is undoubtedly expected to reclaim his position at left centre-back. He was hitting peak form in 2025 before his unfortunate setback.
Known for his combative style and ability to play from the back, the 27-year-old has scored important goals against Fulham and Liverpool, demonstrating he`s a valuable `ball-playing warrior` when fit.
While young talents like Ayden Heaven are future prospects, Martinez should be a guaranteed starter once fully fit.
