Five Manchester United Players Facing Exclusion Under Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim, the newly appointed manager of Manchester United, is undertaking a significant squad overhaul to align with his tactical philosophy. According to an in-depth analysis by SPORTRIK based on reports from Planet Football, several players face uncertain futures at Old Trafford. Consequently, this article examines five players at risk of being sidelined or transferred, highlighting the reasons for their precarious positions and the broader implications for the team’s transformation.

Players at Risk of Departure

1. Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee possesses strong technical skills and intelligent off-ball movement. However, his lack of goal-scoring prowess, with no Premier League goals from the start of the 2024/2025 season until December, raises concerns. For example, his tendency to drop deep may not suit Amorim’s demand for a more aggressive forward. With Rasmus Hojlund, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha favored in attack, Zirkzee’s role has diminished. Thus, his future at United hinges on adapting to Amorim’s system or facing a potential exit.

2. Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw, a Manchester United veteran for 11 years, has been hampered by frequent injuries and inconsistent form. Now approaching 30, he faces competition from younger defenders like Patrick Dorgu and Diego Leon, who align better with Amorim’s high-intensity approach. For instance, reports suggest Shaw is open to new challenges, possibly in the Saudi Pro League. Therefore, his limited fitness and the emergence of alternatives threaten his place in the squad.

3. Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo, a technically gifted midfielder, shows promise with his composure and passing ability. However, injuries have disrupted his development, and Amorim’s midfield plans prioritize others, such as Manuel Ugarte. Moreover, rumors of transfer interest and contract talks have surfaced. Unless Mainoo swiftly adapts to the new system, his position in the starting lineup remains uncertain.

4. Casemiro

Casemiro was once a cornerstone of United’s midfield, but his declining mobility has become evident. For example, he struggles against quick counterattacks, leaving gaps that weaken the team’s transitions. With Ugarte offering a more dynamic presence alongside Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro’s role has reduced. As a result, his age and high salary make him a likely candidate for departure under Amorim’s vision.

5. Andre Onana

Andre Onana remains United’s first-choice goalkeeper and performed well during the pre-season tour. Nevertheless, persistent rumors of a new goalkeeper and his occasional errors cast doubt on his long-term future. For instance, a dip in form could see him relegated to the bench if a more reliable option emerges. Thus, Onana must maintain consistency to secure his position under Amorim.

Amorim’s restructuring aims to implement a high-intensity, attacking 3-4-3 formation, drawing from his successful tenure at Sporting CP. For example, the exclusion of players like Jadon Sancho and Antony from the pre-season tour signals a clear intent to move on from those who do not fit his plans. Additionally, new signings like Mbeumo, Cunha, and Diego Leon emphasize athleticism and tactical compatibility. However, high salaries and transfer fees for some players complicate potential sales, posing challenges to the rebuild.

Furthermore, Amorim’s focus on youth integration, with talents like Leny Yoro and Harry Amass, complements his strategy to reshape the team’s culture. For this reason, maintaining key players like Fernandes while offloading others will be critical to achieving competitive balance.

Under Ruben Amorim, Manchester United players Joshua Zirkzee, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, and Andre Onana face the risk of exclusion due to tactical mismatches or inconsistent performances. Consequently, the upcoming transfer window will be pivotal for United’s transformation. Therefore, fans anticipate the outcome of Amorim’s squad overhaul ahead of the 2025/2026 season. For in-depth analysis of football dynamics, visit SPORTRIK.