Manchester United's supporters have had to wait five long years since their last taste of a Premier League title. This may not seem like a long time but the status of the club and rich history of success inevitably dictates that they compete at the highest level. When Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 after 25 highly fruitful years, there was a huge void left.
Ultimately, the people at the helm of United went for quick fixes by throwing money at it. Players such as Angel Di Maria cost the club a tidy sum when they came in either through transfers or salaries, but could not make a significant impact. The arrival of Jose Mourinho two years ago brought new hope to Manchester United. He came with a somewhat unorthodox style of football but knew exactly how to get the job done. He brought in goals and several trophies to Old Trafford.
At the helm, Mourinho has also done his piece of transfer business. He brought in players that he believed would take them to the next level. These three footballers are important players who could decide it all for the Red Devils.
#3 David De Gea
The Spanish international had a World Cup to forget in Russia. He faced a lot of criticism in the aftermath of their 3-3 draw with Portugal. That aside, David De Gea is well loved at Manchester United and has been voted as their best player in the last four seasons.
He is regarded as one of the world's best goalkeepers. In order for Man United to prosper in the league, De Gea will have to replicate or better his performance from last season. There is no question about his ability and he will be called upon to defend the goal when his defenders fail him.
#2 Paul Pogba
He is known for an extravagant lifestyle and flashy hair styles. The French international, now in his third season, is ripe with potential to dictate matters at the club. Paul Pogba won the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where he also scored in the final.
He is in the kind of form that United need in order to stamp authority over their rivals. Last season, Pogba showed a glimpse of his true potential when he scored two goals to inspire United in their 3-2 comeback win over Manchester City.
This time, he is expected to have a more advanced role going forward with protection from Nemanja Matic and new signing Fred. Will we see the ruthless Pogba who electrified Serie A at Juventus? Only time will tell.
#1 Romelu Lukaku
The burly Belgian striker will once again be the focal point of attack. In his first season, he managed an impressive tally of 27 goals in all competitions for United. This time, it is the common belief that the Red Devils will be sharper and more penetrative offensively. Lukaku had a superb World Cup with Belgium when he scored four goals to emerge as one of the tournament's top scorers.
With Pogba set to have a more attacking role, Lukaku will fancy his chances to get on the end of his trademark passes as Zlatan Ibrahimovic did so often. Lukaku has enough Premier League experience and is in the form of his life heading into this campaign.
His height, speed and raw power gives him a definite advantage when it comes to being a target man up front. Just like Robin Van Persie did a few years ago, Lukaku too can score the goals that will deliver the title once again to Old Trafford.