Former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique has emphasized the importance of the Red Devils focusing on their academy rather than spending extravagantly.
The Red Devils are currently undergoing a rebuilding phase under new ownership, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS now overseeing football operations with a 25% stake. Despite their recent arrival at the club, discussions are already underway regarding their plans for the upcoming summer transfer window.
Among the topics being deliberated is the future of Erik ten Hag, who has faced challenges in impressing this season. While he enjoyed a successful first campaign by guiding Man Utd back to the Champions League and securing victories in the EFL Cup and reaching the FA Cup final, his performance this season has been under scrutiny.
In the current season, Man Utd has progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals after eliminating Liverpool in the quarter-finals. However, their overall campaign may hinge on their success at Wembley. The Red Devils finished at the bottom of their Champions League group and are currently nine points adrift of the top four with 10 matches remaining. Despite having a game in hand over fourth-placed Aston Villa, the task ahead appears challenging.
In addition to the search for a new manager, Man Utd is also rumored to be eyeing several players to inject fresh energy into their squad. Reports suggest that the club is interested in acquiring Joao Gomes from Wolves and is also exploring the possibility of signing Pedro Neto.
Man Utd continues to struggle in finding their identity post-Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure a decade ago. Pique emphasizes the need for the club to seek solutions from within. Among the £50m+ signings, only Casemiro and Hojlund have truly made a positive impact, with the latter’s transfer fee still considered excessive. Notably, Man Utd’s standout player this season emerged from the academy.
Kobbie Mainoo made his debut for Man Utd last year, surprising everyone with his remarkable performance this season. The teenager has featured in 14 Premier League matches, earning the Man of the Match title on his full debut. He has been a consistent presence in the team, often partnering with or replacing Casemiro in the midfield.
Mainoo’s statistics in the Premier League include an average of 1.94 tackles, 1.78 clearances, and 2.1 possessions won in the middle third per 90 minutes.