Under Michael Carrick, who took over from Ruben Amorim until the end of the 2025/26 season, things have improved for the Red Devils, but there is still work to do.
The main goal for the team is to secure a spot in the Champions League for next season. They are currently in a strong position, ahead of Chelsea and Aston Villa in third place.
Since Carrick took charge at Old Trafford, he has only lost once, with notable victories against top teams like Arsenal and Manchester City.
That loss was a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park. Reports suggest that players feel they have not performed well enough at the start of matches.
They will aim to improve when they face Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, on Sunday, March 15.
Following that, the team will play against Bournemouth, as they also plan to strengthen their squad for the summer.
Last summer showed the benefits of smart recruiting, highlighted by the signings of Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo. Focusing on players with Premier League experience like Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha has proven effective.
This is why Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United is being considered as a potential replacement for Casemiro.
Additionally, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group are aiming to recruit some of the most promising young talents in football, including Alejandro Balde.
At just 22 years old, the left-back would be an ideal replacement for the older Luke Shaw. However, reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano has dampened speculation about a move.
On his YouTube channel, Romano commented on the links between Balde and Manchester United, stating, “Barcelona sees Balde as a key part of their future. They believe he has significant potential and is not close to reaching his peak yet.”
Romano also mentioned that Barcelona, currently leading La Liga by four points over Real Madrid, has no plans to let Balde leave.
“At this point, Barcelona is not considering letting Balde go to Man Utd. Moreover, United has already invested in that position with Patrick Dorgu.”
Romano continued, “We’ll see what decisions Utd makes for various positions as they prepare for a busy summer. They are looking to add a left winger and midfielders, and there are questions about the centre-back position.”
Romano wrapped up his comments by stating that as of now, there have been no negotiations for Alejandro Balde.
Currently, Carrick is relying heavily on Shaw for the left side of defense, especially since Patrick Dorgu is injured.
Diego Leon, an 18-year-old signed from Cerro Porteno last summer, is also eager for a chance in first-team football, although he has yet to make a competitive appearance.