As Manchester United looks toward the 2024 season, the club faces a crucial period of transformation. After a turbulent 2023, where they showed signs of improvement under Erik ten Hag but still struggled with consistency, Manchester United is keen on making the necessary changes to challenge for top honors domestically and in Europe. The club’s strategic moves in the transfer market, along with key tactical decisions, will be vital in shaping their future. Here’s a look at what Manchester United needs to focus on as they prepare for the 2024 season.
1. Addressing the Forward Position: Striker Search
One of the most pressing needs for Manchester United in 2024 is strengthening their attacking options. Despite the efforts of players like Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Anthony Martial, United still lacks a world-class, consistent striker to lead their frontline. With Martial often injured and Rashford’s performances inconsistent, Ten Hag has been forced to deploy makeshift solutions.
Manchester United is reportedly eyeing several high-profile forwards in the transfer market, including potential moves for players like Victor Osimhen of Napoli or Rasmus Højlund of Atalanta. The club needs a striker who can regularly find the back of the net and take some of the scoring burden off Rashford, especially as they aim for a top-four finish in the Premier League and a deep run in the Champions League.
2. Reinforcing the Midfield: A Playmaker and Box-to-Box Presence
Midfield is another area that will require attention ahead of the 2024 season. Although Bruno Fernandes provides creativity and control, Manchester United has struggled with consistency in the middle of the park. Casemiro, while solid defensively, has shown signs of slowing down, and the club needs a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder to complement his defensive capabilities and provide more energy and creativity in the middle of the park.
A player who could help fulfill this need is Moisés Caicedo of Chelsea, who has the ability to break up play and drive the ball forward, or Declan Rice of Arsenal, who could provide both defensive stability and the ability to link play effectively. United may also explore options for an attacking midfielder who could complement Fernandes and create more fluidity in the final third.
3. Strengthening the Right Wing: A Solution for Consistency
Despite the presence of Antony, Manchester United has struggled to find a consistent threat on the right wing. Antony, while talented, has faced criticism for his lack of goal involvement and unpredictability. A creative and direct right-winger could add another dimension to United’s attack, stretching opposition defenses and providing balance to Rashford’s presence on the left.
The club has been linked with Jadon Sancho’s potential departure amid a turbulent period for the player, making a reinvestment in this area likely. Players like Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) or Mohammed Kudus (West Ham) could offer the necessary flair and versatility, adding depth and competition to the squad.
4. Defensive Reinforcements: A Long-Term Solution at Center-Back
While United’s defense has shown signs of improvement, it’s clear that the club still needs a long-term partner for Raphaël Varane. Lisandro Martínez has been a strong addition, but his injury issues have left the team lacking depth in the center-back position. Harry Maguire’s future is uncertain, and United may look to offload him to free up funds for a stronger defensive option.
Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich has been mentioned as a potential target due to his strong aerial presence and composure on the ball. Additionally, Josko Gvardiol of Manchester City or Milan Škriniar of Paris Saint-Germain could provide the leadership and quality that would allow Varane to focus on his best performances.
5. Tactical Adjustments: More Fluidity and Creativity in Attack
While the transfer market will play a significant role in United’s 2024 ambitions, Erik ten Hag will also need to make tactical adjustments to improve his squad’s overall cohesion. United has often struggled with playing a consistent and fluid attacking game, especially against high-pressing teams. Ten Hag’s preference for possession-based football has been evident, but the team has lacked the cutting edge needed to break down stubborn defenses.
The introduction of a more varied offensive approach, including quick transitions and more direct attacking runs, could help unlock potential. Ten Hag will also need to integrate his new signings effectively and ensure the squad is adaptable in different situations, from challenging high-press systems to controlling games against weaker opponents.
6. Youth Development: Fostering Emerging Talent
In addition to external signings, Manchester United’s youth development system remains one of its strongest assets. Players like Alejandro Garnacho, Facundo Pellistri, and Amad Diallo have shown promise, and integrating them into the first team could provide an injection of energy and skill. Garnacho, in particular, has demonstrated his ability to be a game-changer when brought on as a substitute.
United’s tactical development will also be crucial in ensuring the transition of these young players into consistent first-team options. A balance between experienced players and emerging talent will be key to the club’s future success.
7. Goalkeeper Situation: A Potential Change in Between the Sticks
David de Gea’s departure after a long and successful tenure as United’s goalkeeper has left the club with questions in goal. Andre Onana, who joined from Inter Milan, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced criticism for some high-profile mistakes. The team will be hoping Onana continues to settle into the Premier League and fully adapts to Ten Hag’s playing style, which requires a goalkeeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet.
United may look for more depth in this position, but at the moment, Onana is expected to be the long-term solution.
Conclusion: Optimizing the Squad for 2024 Glory
As Manchester United moves into the 2024 season, the club faces important decisions regarding transfers and tactical direction. With a solid foundation in place, Ten Hag has the tools to improve United’s consistency and competitiveness. Strengthening the attacking options, midfield, and defensive depth will be essential for the team to compete for Premier League titles and make deep runs in Europe. Meanwhile, continuing to nurture the club’s young talents and optimizing the squad’s tactical approach will help United in their quest for silverware. The 2024 season is poised to be a crucial year in their ongoing rebuild under Erik ten Hag.
