Manchester United has suffered a disastrous 2024–25 campaign, which has been marked by a series of dubious transfer decisions and internal conflict, culminating in an uncertain season. The source of the club's troubles can be traced back to two significant transfer "green lights" that have had lasting consequences.
Scott McTominay's Departure
It was recently the turn of former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to bemoan the Red Devils' disposal of midfielder Scott McTominay. Solskjaer is now the boss at Besiktas and, in a stinging remark, asserted McTominay's centrality on the pitch and off it. McTominay, after being transferred to Napoli, has prospered, scoring seven times from 28 appearances and earning plaudits from fans as well as awards from Italian media. Napoli fans have even gone as far as calling him "McTotally" due to his enormous influence. Solskjaer condemned the sale, noting that the leadership and flexibility of McTominay were irreplaceable attributes Manchester United now so sorely miss." (Source)
The Signing of André Onana
Manchester United paid €52 million to secure Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana in 2023. Originally seen as a promising addition, Onana's spell has been tainted by costly errors that have attracted ever more ridicule from supporters and pundits alike. Having begun well in his second season, recent errors have resulted in 39 conceded goals in 27 Premier League matches and only seven clean sheets. This performance has triggered debate among fans, with some calling for his sale in the upcoming transfer window and others longing for the stability previously brought by his predecessor, David de Gea, now on a career renaissance at Fiorentina. (Source)
Internal Turmoil: Erik ten Hag's Management Style
The club's internal dynamics have also been contentious. Erik ten Hag, who got the axe this season, was recently interviewed about the challenge in handling today's "Gen-Z" football players, insinuating they don't take criticism—a statement rooted in his notorious relationships with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho. (Source)
It emerged that Ten Hag had been accused of causing trouble with star players such as Ronaldo and Sancho by dominating by fear. It was alleged by one player that Ten Hag's leadership style contributed to unnecessary stress within the squad, leading to a broken team culture. (Source)
The Cristiano Ronaldo Saga
Tense Ten Hag-Cristiano Ronaldo relationship was at the center of controversy. Ronaldo described his argument with Ten Hag in a 2022 interview, accusing the manager of being unsympathetic and provoking him, for which Ronaldo stormed off the pitch. The very publicized row not only upset the dressing room but also attracted negative press attention, destabilizing the club further at a critical time. (Source)
Recent Transfer Activities
As part of the attempts to set the season right, Manchester United has been active during the transfer window. Manchester United has shown interest in Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres as strikers, with weekly developments regarding their ability to sign. Financial constraints and other teams' interests are huge stumbling blocks towards such transfers, though. (Source)
Secondly, the club has been reported to be considering a move for Bayern Munich youngster Mathys Tel. Manchester United is said to be keen on hijacking Tottenham's pursuit of the French youngster, marking a tactical move towards signing new players to bring back the team to its former power. (Source)
Conclusion
Manchester United's poor performance can be attributed to both hasty transfer plans and internal conflicts. The departures of key players like Scott McTominay, along with underperforming signings like André Onana, have weakened the team's foundation. Moreover, managerial conflicts, particularly with high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, have weakened team unity. As the club goes on to complete the remainder of the season, addressing these issues will be crucial to restoring stability and achieving future success.
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