Just when Manchester United fans were hoping for a summer of exciting signings and renewed hope, things have taken a sharp turn.
Their dreams of Champions League football — and the financial boost that comes with it — were dashed following a painful defeat to Tottenham.
Instead of a £100 million windfall, United are left reevaluating everything from transfer strategies to squad depth.
The club now faces a defining off-season, not just in terms of player transfers, but in shaping their entire future.
Here’s a breakdown of who should stay and who should be shown the exit door as the Red Devils attempt to rebuild.
Goalkeepers: Time for Stability
Andre Onana
Despite the criticism — and former players like Nemanja Matic not holding back — Onana’s position isn’t United’s most urgent concern. He stays.
Altay Bayindir
Unless there’s an obvious improvement available, keeping Bayindir as backup makes sense. Stay.
Defenders: Out with the Old?
Victor Lindelof
His contract’s up soon, and he doesn’t fit Amorim’s style. Let him go.
Harry Maguire
Say what you will about his pace, but he’s a leader in a fractured squad. Keep.
Lisandro Martinez
Yes, he’s been sidelined with an ACL injury, but his aggression and versatility are valuable. Keep.
Matthijs de Ligt
Not the defensive anchor United hoped for. If it’s between him and Maguire, Maguire wins. Move on.
Jonny Evans
Respected veteran, but it’s time. Out of contract and out of the picture. Let go.
Leny Yoro
Only 19, but showing maturity beyond his years. Definitely one to keep and develop.
Luke Shaw
Injuries continue to plague him. Talented when fit, but enough is enough. Move on.
Noussair Mazraoui
Solid defensively and finally getting regular minutes. Worth keeping around.
Diogo Dalot
Not a superstar, but dependable and versatile. Those players matter. Keep.
Tyrell Malacia
Loaned out and not proving his worth. If he can’t break into this squad, it’s a problem. Let go.
Patrick Dorgu
Still just 20 and cost £25 million — too early to write him off. Give him a chance.
Midfielders: Time to Refresh
Manuel Ugarte
Not living up to his price tag. If they can recover most of that £50m, great. Time to part ways.
Kobbie Mainoo
Young, promising, and someone worth investing time in. Keep and hope he shines.
Casemiro
Experience can only get you so far. His legs just can’t keep up anymore. Move on.
Christian Eriksen
Out of contract and past his peak. A graceful exit is due.
Mason Mount
He hasn’t impressed, but he’s young enough to turn it around. Keep for now.
Bruno Fernandes
The team’s heartbeat. He’s been carrying United for too long. Absolutely essential. Keep.
Forwards: Cut the Dead Weight
Amad Diallo
Impressive in the final and still developing. A clear asset moving forward. Keep.
Alejandro Garnacho
Talented but inconsistent. Still, he brings flair and unpredictability. Keep.
Antony
Found form at Real Betis, but hasn’t clicked at United. Time to sell.
Jadon Sancho
The loan to Chelsea doesn’t seem to be working either. It’s just not meant to be. Move on.
Marcus Rashford
He’s shown glimpses of brilliance again. A motivated Rashford is worth holding onto. Keep.
Joshua Zirkzee
He doesn’t look like someone who’ll lead a Champions League push. Let him go.
Rasmus Hojlund
Hard-working, but not quite the answer up front. United need a better finisher. Move on.
Manager: Back Amorim or Bust
Ruben Amorim
He’s made it clear — he won’t change his approach.
That means United need to back him with the right players.
The concern? Budget. With Champions League cash off the table, can they still attract top talent? If they’re serious about success, they need to give Amorim the tools to succeed.
Keep him — but support him.
What’s Next for United?
Missing out on the Champions League isn’t just a sporting failure — it’s a financial and strategic setback.
The summer was meant to be about climbing back to the top.
Now, it’s about survival, smart decisions, and salvaging a sinking ship.
Whether they bounce back depends on bold moves — and finally letting go of the players who are no longer part of the solution.