United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United begin the 2025-2026 season with a squad reshaped by attacking transfers, injury returnees, and tactical changes. Ruben Amorim has decisions to make across the pitch, and below, we dive into United’s best eleven for the manager’s first full season in charge.

Goalkeeper and Back Three

Andre Onana is out, and Senne Lammens steps in. Manchester United invested €21 million in the 23-year-old Belgian, who immediately claims the starting role for the Reds. Altay Bayindir offers solid backup, while Tom Heaton adds veteran leadership and experience to the squad.

Ruben Amorim has numerous players who can play in his back three. Matthijs De Ligt and Harry Maguire are solid, aerially strong middle center backs. Noussair Mazraoui and Leny Yoro are right-footed, technical defenders for the right side, while Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven, and Luke Shaw can round out the back line on the left.

Rising star Yoro is primed to become the best young defender in the Premier League and is the best option for right center back. Harry Maguire improved throughout last campaign and holds an edge over De Ligt for the central spot, while Licha Martinez, though injured, is Amorim’s best option for the left.

Midfield Four

Patrick Dorgu, who arrived in January, brings pace and power down the left flank. His ongoing development is vital for United’s success this season, as he is the top choice over Diego Leon and Luke Shaw. On the right, both Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo have strong cases to start. Dalot offers balance as a more traditional fullback who can still contribute going forward. Amad, who was converted from winger to wing-back, adds unpredictability with his technical quality and dangerous left foot.

In midfield, Bruno Fernandes is the unquestioned leader and a guaranteed starter. Manuel Ugarte offers greater defensive stability and endurance than Kobbie Mainoo or Casemiro, which are qualities that become even more important with Bruno playing deeper. Beyond those four, however, United lacks depth, leaving youngsters like Jack Fletcher and Sekou Kone as potential options if injuries arise.

Front Three

Matheus Cunha. Bryan Mbeumo. Benjamin Sesko. You don’t spend €225 million on three players if they do not immediately become your best options. The three attackers combined for 48 league goals last season, four more than the Reds managed as a team. The three starters are set, and now must become the catalyst for change as United push for Europe.

Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount are two solid options off the bench, while young Chido Obi will earn more minutes as he grows with the first team. Amad can also rotate into an attacking midfield role when called upon.

Final Eleven

Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens

Defenders: Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez

Midfielders: Amad Diallo, Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu

Attackers: Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko