There have been whispers of ‘progress’ at Old Trafford since Jose Mourinho arrived two summers ago. Let’s hope that progress will include some exciting football next season.
And, after 5 transfer windows, he can have few excuses if Manchester United don’t make a serious challenge for the top titles next campaign.
Let’s have a look at who could leave the club in the latest shake up.
Juan Mata
One of David Moyes’s only two signings has enjoyed many ups and downs during his time at Old Trafford. At 30 years of age he’s been used sparingly as the last season has entered its final furlongs and perhaps, with the additions of a couple of midfielders this summer, Mata could be on his way back to Spain.
Luke Shaw
One of the great disappointments that we have about José Mourinho is that he has been unable or unwilling to progress Luke Shaw at Manchester United. Shaw looks like a United player through and through and obviously, at 22, will make mistakes. But Mourinho doesn’t seem to be prepared to tolerate this inexperience and rumours linger that he could be on his way this summer – to the huge frustration of many Manchester United fans.
Anthony Martial
Ditto Anthony Martial. He looked like the saviour of the club when he joined a few years back with 17 goals in his first season and that dreamlike debut against Liverpool. He was always ice cold in front of goal and a beautiful dribbler of the ball. But José Mourinho seems to have lost patience with the Frenchman too. At 22 he has his whole career ahead of him and it would be a big mistake to let him go.
Matteo Darmian
Who the flipping heck are you? The forgotten man of Manchester United looks like a ghost every time he gets a few minutes on the pitch. We would be amazed if his curious sideburns were still on display at Old Trafford next season.
Paul Pogba
Despite his own inconsistencies Pogba should be a crucial part of the spine of the next great Manchester United side. Whether this will happen or not remains to be seen after a very iffy season between Mourinho and the brilliant Frenchman.
Chris Smalling
I don’t know whether to laugh or cry when I see Chris Smalling on the ball. He’s a great athlete but has no finesse and surely can’t be part of a great Manchester United side.
Victor Lindelof
José Mourinho has signed well but perhaps this is his worst since he joined the club. Lindelof looks as if his head has gone and he can’t handle the pressure of playing for Manchester United.
United fans: who do you think will leave this summer?