Forwards
Left Wing: Anthony Martial/Ivan Perisic
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Having played fewer minutes under Mourinho than the likes of Marouane Fellaini and Jesse Lingard, it is safe to assume that Martial is not a sure shot starter. The gaffer’s lack of faith in the forward has astounded many a fan.
Despite being deployed as a winger, the forward was United’s top scorer in the 2015-16 season. The ceiling on his abilities is enormous. Having performed superbly at one of the world’s biggest clubs, Martial has the goods to deliver on a consistent basis.
Croatian winger Ivan Perisic is one of the more effective wide-men across Europe. He had a fine season with Inter Milan. With 11 goals and 8 assists from 36 appearances in Serie A, Perisic has become a key player at the club.
According to many reports from English newspapers, the Europa-League winners have made him one of their main targets for the summer.
The former Wolfsburg player still has three years left on his contract and would cost Manchester United a fortune. He got media attention after performing splendidly at the Euros in 2016.
The pacy forward is renowned for his counter-attacking threat and has the ability to shoot with both feet. With the release of Zlatan, a player of his quality is a necessity for the club.
Striker: Alvaro Morata/Marcus Rashford
United’s lack of ability to convert big chances hurt them massively last season. The team broke a long-standing record for the most number of draws in a league season (14).
However, they would look to put an end to their worries with the signing of Spanish hitman Alvaro Morata. The striker averaged a goal every 66 minutes last season, second only to the great Leo Messi (min 10 goals).
Possessing a winner’s mentality, the 24-year-old has won plenty of silverware with Real Madrid and Juventus. Standing at 1.89m, Morata is surprisingly agile and extremely physical. With these dynamic traits, he can hold up play as well as lead swift counter-attacks. Nearing a £70 million move, the Spaniard is a perfect fit for this illustrious club.
Marcus Rashford enjoyed a fruitful 2016-17 season with the club. Inspired by the presence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the lad from Manchester scored 12 times in 55 appearances last term.
Having been termed as Rooney’s successor, it is vital for him to start regularly. Not only would it boost his confidence, playing around top quality team-mates of his on a regular basis would improve his game by leaps and bounds.
Unlike other youngsters, Jose Mourinho has shown complete faith in Rashford and the latter has not disappointed. Scoring in the Manchester Derby, against Chelsea, Arsenal and a crucial away goal in the Europa League semi-finals (vs Benfica), the 19-year-old has been the man for all occasions for Manchester United.
Right Wing: Henrikh Mkhitaryan
Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s first season at the club was a palpable affair. From the memorable highs in Europe (Europa League) to the disappointing lows in England, the Armenian international experienced it all. He was United’s top scorer in Europe with six goals and was involved in two other goals.
Blessed with incredible pace and silky dribbling skills, Mkhitaryan was Dortmund’s tormentor-en-chief during his time in Germany. Although he has failed to replicate his performances for the Red Devils, the playmaker remains one of Mourinho’s favourites.
With a host of quality players signing for rival clubs, his form will be vital for the club’s title challenge next season.
Can Jose’s army win the title?
The Premier League is becoming increasingly competitive as each season passes by. With huge sums of money at their disposal, many of the English clubs spend lavishly and bring in the best performers from all around Europe.
As things stand, Manchester United have a complete squad. With the addition(s) of Victor Lindelof and Alvaro Morata (most likely), most of the bases have been covered. The addition of a defensive midfielder would do wonders for the club. A young and exciting squad, it would be no fluke if the Red Devils lift the trophy for a record twenty-first time.
