As we enter the new year, football fans eagerly anticipate the return of Premier League action, with Manchester United aiming to build on their recent resurgence under manager Erik ten Hag. The Red Devils have undergone a significant transformation, and the 2024 season promises to be an exciting one as they strive to challenge for silverware and secure a top-four finish.
With a blend of experienced stars and promising young talents, Manchester United's squad boasts an array of players capable of making an impact. Here, we highlight 10 players who will be key to the club's success in the upcoming season, each bringing their unique skills and potential to the team.
Casemiro
The Brazilian midfield powerhouse has been a revelation since joining Manchester United in the summer of 2022. Casemiro’s arrival brought a new level of control and dominance to the United midfield, and his influence was immediate. With his exceptional defensive abilities, precise passing, and leadership qualities, he has become an integral part of the team’s success.
Casemiro's reading of the game is exceptional, allowing him to break up opposition attacks with ease. His physical presence and tactical awareness make him a formidable force in the middle of the park. In the 2023-2024 season, Casemiro will continue to be a key figure, providing a solid foundation for the team's creative players to thrive.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 68
- Goals: 7
- Assists: 4
- Tackles Won: 125
- Interceptions: 103
Bruno Fernandes
A creative force and fan favorite, Bruno Fernandes has been a driving force behind Manchester United’s recent success. His arrival in January 2020 marked a turning point for the club, as he brought a spark of brilliance to the attack. Fernandes’ ability to create chances, score goals, and dictate the tempo of the game has made him an indispensable asset.
With his vision, passing range, and dead-ball expertise, Fernandes is a constant threat to opposition defenses. He has formed a formidable partnership with the likes of Marcus Rashford and Antony, creating a dynamic and lethal attacking trio. In the 2024 season, Fernandes will aim to maintain his high standards and lead the team to greater heights.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 150
- Goals: 78
- Assists: 56
- Pass Completion: 87.4%
- Key Passes: 187
Lisandro Martínez
The Argentine defender has been a revelation since his arrival at Old Trafford. Martínez’s versatility and relentless work ethic have made him a fan favorite and a crucial component of Manchester United’s backline. Despite his small stature, he possesses exceptional defensive attributes and a tenacious attitude.
Martínez's ability to read the game, make timely interceptions, and win aerial duels belies his size. He is equally adept at playing as a center-back or a full-back, offering tactical flexibility to the team. In the 2024 season, Martínez will look to continue his impressive form and solidify his place as one of the Premier League's top defenders.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 65
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 3
- Tackles Won: 112
- Clearances: 247
Marcus Rashford
A homegrown talent and a fan favorite, Marcus Rashford has been a key figure in Manchester United’s attack for several seasons. His pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Rashford’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, making him a valuable asset for manager Erik ten Hag.
In the 2023-2024 season, Rashford will aim to build on his impressive form and establish himself as one of the Premier League's top strikers. With his clinical finishing and ability to create chances for teammates, he will be a pivotal player in United's quest for success.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 246
- Goals: 93
- Assists: 54
- Dribbles Completed: 567
- Shots on Target: 234
Anthony Elanga
The young Swedish forward has shown tremendous potential since breaking into the first team. Elanga’s pace, dribbling ability, and fearless attitude make him a fan favorite and a valuable asset for Manchester United. He has established himself as a versatile and energetic presence on the pitch, capable of playing on either flank or through the middle.
In the 2024 season, Elanga will look to build on his promising start and establish himself as a regular starter. With his dynamic style of play and ability to create chances, he will be a key component in United's attacking arsenal.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 51
- Goals: 11
- Assists: 6
- Dribbles Completed: 137
- Shots on Target: 45
Harry Maguire
The English center-back and current club captain, Harry Maguire, has been a stalwart of Manchester United’s defense for several seasons. His leadership, aerial prowess, and physical presence make him a crucial figure in the backline. Maguire’s ability to win crucial headers, make timely interventions, and organize the defense has been invaluable.
In the 2024 season, Maguire will aim to continue his solid defensive performances and guide the team to greater success. With his experience and commanding presence, he will be a key figure in United's quest for a top-four finish and a strong cup run.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 204
- Goals: 13
- Assists: 6
- Tackles Won: 227
- Clearances: 1145
David de Gea
The Spanish goalkeeper has been a consistent presence in the Manchester United goal for over a decade. De Gea’s shot-stopping abilities, reflexes, and command of his area have made him one of the Premier League’s most reliable goalkeepers. His composure and leadership have been instrumental in stabilizing the defense.
In the 2024 season, De Gea will aim to maintain his high standards and continue his impressive form. With his experience and ability to make crucial saves, he will be a key figure in United's pursuit of silverware.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 501
- Clean Sheets: 183
- Saves: 1472
- Goals Conceded: 578
- Save Percentage: 75.4%
Diogo Dalot
The Portuguese right-back has established himself as a valuable asset in Manchester United’s squad. Dalot’s pace, crossing ability, and defensive solidity have made him a fan favorite. He has formed a strong partnership with the attacking players, providing width and support in the final third.
In the 2024 season, Dalot will aim to build on his impressive performances and establish himself as a regular starter. With his energy, work rate, and attacking prowess, he will be a key component in United's offensive strategies.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 87
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 14
- Tackles Won: 101
- Crosses: 309
Fred
The Brazilian midfielder has been a consistent performer for Manchester United since his arrival in 2018. Fred’s energy, tenacity, and passing range have made him a valuable asset in the midfield. He has formed a strong partnership with Casemiro, providing balance and stability to the team’s engine room.
In the 2024 season, Fred will aim to continue his solid performances and contribute to United's success. With his work rate, ball-winning abilities, and ability to dictate the tempo, he will be a key figure in the team's midfield battles.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 168
- Goals: 9
- Assists: 10
- Tackles Won: 234
- Pass Completion: 86.3%
Antony
The Brazilian winger has been a revelation since joining Manchester United in the summer of 2022. Antony’s pace, dribbling skills, and creative flair have made him a fan favorite and a key component of the team’s attack. He has formed a lethal partnership with Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford, creating a dynamic and exciting front three.
In the 2024 season, Antony will aim to build on his impressive form and establish himself as one of the Premier League's top wingers. With his dribbling ability, eye for goal, and willingness to take on defenders, he will be a constant threat to opposition defenses.
Key Stats
- Appearances: 65
- Goals: 19
- Assists: 16
- Dribbles Completed: 213
- Shots on Target: 64
What is the expected formation for Manchester United in the 2024 season?
+Manager Erik ten Hag is expected to continue with a 4-3-3 formation, which has brought success to the team in recent seasons. This formation allows for a balanced approach, with a solid defense and a dynamic attack.
Who are the key transfer targets for Manchester United in the upcoming transfer window?
+The club is rumored to be interested in signing a central defender and a creative midfielder to further strengthen the squad. Names like Kalidou Koulibaly and Declan Rice have been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
What are the main challenges facing Manchester United in the 2024 season?
+The main challenge will be maintaining consistency throughout the season. With a young and talented squad, managing expectations and staying focused on the long-term goals will be crucial. Additionally, the competition for a top-four finish will be intense, with several strong teams vying for those positions.
Related Terms:
- Manuel Ugarte
- Joshua Zirkzee
- Altay Bayindir
- Rasmus Hojlund
- Dermot Mee
- Kobbie Mainoo
