Which Manchester United Star Needs to Shine to Win Over Amorim?

Manchester United has embarked on a journey they hope signifies a return to their former glory.

Reuben Amorim is using his current tour in the U.S. as a crucial opportunity to turn around what has been the club’s most challenging period in over five decades. Appointed in November, the Portuguese manager recognizes the need to prove himself as he prepares for his inaugural full season, a sentiment shared by several players on his roster.

In a significant shake-up, Amorim is releasing several notable players, including Marcus Rashford, who has been loaned to Barcelona, and Alejandro Garnacho, who has been instructed to seek a new club.

For those traveling to America, they have already met initial expectations as they enter a transformative phase. However, as the club continues to evolve, many squad members face a pivotal season to demonstrate their potential to remain in the club’s future plans.

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Mason Mount

The midfielder has experienced frustration at United, starting just 13 Premier League matches after his £60 million transfer from Chelsea in 2023 and battling several injuries. He only managed to represent United fully in a League Cup match against Newcastle in November 2023.

Now fit again, Mount is entering a crucial season. At 26, Amorim appreciates his pressing ability, but he must contend with intense competition for one of the two No. 10 positions in a 3-4-2-1 formation, especially after over £130 million was spent on Matthews Cunha and Brian Mbemo.

If Mount can regain his form from the 2021-22 season, reminiscent of when he scored 11 Premier League goals for Chelsea, he will become a vital asset for Amorim. Conversely, another disappointing season could jeopardize his future at the club ahead of next summer.

Joshua Zilkie

During an interview on the summer tour in the U.S., Zilkie expressed that United fans have yet to see his top form since his transfer from Bologna last year, acknowledging their desire for more than just a narrative. “They want to witness action on the pitch,” he remarked.

After facing booing from some fans at Old Trafford during a defeat to Newcastle in December and struggling with hamstring issues in April, Zilkie aims to bounce back this season.

There’s ongoing debate about whether he has the attributes to thrive as a central striker in Amorim’s formation or if he is better suited to one of the No. 10 roles. In either scenario, he must capitalize on this season to demonstrate his capability of staying at Old Trafford. Given that he netted only three goals in 32 Premier League appearances last season, increasing his scoring output becomes crucial.

Luke Shaw

Discussions surrounding Shaw primarily center on his fitness rather than talent. Managers like Eric Ten Hag and Gareth Southgate consistently vie for his services whenever he is fit, but unfortunately, that has been infrequent, particularly over the past two years.

Shaw’s abilities are well-suited for the left-sided center-back position in Amorim’s three-man defense, and a lack of European matches this season could allow him more recovery time. At 30, it is essential for him to establish himself as a key player for Amorim as concerns grow about his future if he cannot maintain his fitness for a third consecutive season.

Kobbie Mainoo

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Mainoo’s position is intriguing. The 20-year-old midfielder obviously possesses talent, but questions remain about his role in Amorim’s setup. Is he a deep-lying No. 6 or a No. 10 playing just behind the striker? At times last season, he even saw action as a makeshift No. 9.

He stood out among young players in Euro 2024, but struggled to leave a mark at the end of last season, condensed by his minimal use in the UEFA Europa League final against Tottenham, where he came off the bench in the 89th minute.

Amorim has recognized Mainoo’s potential during the U.S. tour, mentioning he has “big plans” for him, but cautioned that “he needs to improve his tempo and pace.” With only one match per week next season, the competition will be fierce.

If Mainoo finds it hard to break into Amorim’s starting lineup this year, his contract situation (running until 2027 with an option for another year) will start to raise concerns. As an academy product, his potential transfer could yield a substantial fee to support the club if needed.

Andre Onana

This summer, United has proactively addressed issues by signing Cunha and Mbeumo, yet the striker position remains a topic of interest. Nonetheless, other areas, including the goalkeeper position, could also use reinforcement.

There is preliminary interest in 26-year-old Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has been turned away by Aston Villa, and has one year left on his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. However, Onana, the Cameroon international, appears set to retain his number one role at United, expressing no desire to leave while the club focuses resources elsewhere.

This situation allows Onana a season to validate his position without needing an upgrade. Still, he must eliminate any costly errors after two inconsistent years.