With Matheus Cunha and Sesko, Manchester United’s new likely lineup aims for Champions League return
Manchester United are preparing for the 2025/26 season with a completely revamped attack and renewed expectations. After a disappointing Premier League campaign under Rúben Amorim, the club invested heavily to strengthen its offensive sector and now hopes to fight for a place in the Champions League.
New faces in attack
The Red Devils parted ways with players such as Antony and Alejandro Garnacho, while bringing in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko. According to a projection by Squawka, the new-look starting XI could be:
Lammens; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Amad Diallo, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Sesko.
The reserve team, however, still highlights gaps in the squad: Bayindir; Mazraoui, Maguire, Heaven (Lisandro Martínez); Dalot, Ugarte, Mainoo, Leon; Chido Obi, Zirkzee, Mount.
Stability in defense and midfield
While the attack was transformed, defense and midfield saw fewer changes. Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes remain central figures, with De Ligt leading the backline. Amorim will rely on this balance to build consistency after a turbulent year.
Fewer competitions, more focus
Unlike rivals competing in Europe, United will only play in the Premier League and the FA Cup this season. The absence of Champions League and Europa League matches could become a strategic advantage, allowing the squad to maintain fitness and intensity across the domestic calendar.
Last season, the team suffered setbacks, including a shock League Cup elimination to fourth-tier Grimsby, but expectations are that the new attacking trio will make the difference.
Next match: Manchester Derby
After the FIFA international break, United return to action on August 14 in one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures: the Manchester Derby against City, at 12:30 p.m. (Brasília time).
