Manchester United is navigating a challenging transfer market following its disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season. This ranking marked the club’s worst performance during the Premier League era, prompting urgent action to strengthen the squad. As the 2025/26 campaign begins, the club has invested more than £200 million in attacking talent, acquiring players such as Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. However, significant gaps in the team remain.
Former United forward Brian McClair has expressed concerns that the absence of European football has severely impacted the club’s ability to attract quality players this summer. In an interview with FourFourTwo, McClair noted, “It would’ve been a lot easier to bring in quality players this summer with the attraction of the Champions League. No European football means less money to spend, and less reason to choose Manchester United over others.”
Despite recent signings, McClair believes that Manchester United must focus on securing players capable of performing at a high level immediately. “The key when you’re in a situation like United is to bring in players you know are going to be able to perform at this level,” he stated. He emphasized that while taking risks on players can be beneficial when a team is thriving, it is crucial to recruit experienced individuals during a rebuilding phase.
McClair highlighted the need for strong personalities within the squad, particularly in light of Rasmus Hojlund‘s struggles last season. The young forward faced the challenging task of scoring goals for a side that had difficulty creating chances. “That’s where you need big-game players to step up and alleviate some pressure. The only one who regularly did that last season was Bruno Fernandes. That has to change,” McClair said.
As Manchester United embarks on this crucial transfer window, Ruben Amorim is at the helm for his first summer as manager. McClair believes that Amorim has a clear vision for his team and should focus on recruiting players who fit his tactical approach. “He has been wedded so far to his back three, and I can’t see that changing, so it’s about bringing in the right faces to make that system work,” McClair explained.
The need for a cohesive unit is more pressing than ever, as not every player currently at the club aligns with Amorim’s strategy. “He needs the right mix of players to make that work,” McClair asserted, emphasizing the importance of adapting the squad to the manager’s requirements.
As the transfer window progresses, Manchester United’s ability to attract talent will be closely scrutinized. The challenges posed by a lack of European competition may continue to hinder their efforts, making the upcoming season a critical one for the storied club.
