Sir Jim Ratcliffe can build dream Man United XI for Premier League opening day with mega transfers

After assuming leadership in December, Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be eager to add his own flair to the Manchester United team this summer.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a big summer ahead at Man United (Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

This summer, Sir Jim Ratcliffe intends to bolster the Manchester United team. Following his December purchase of a stake in United, the British billionaire pledged to return his childhood team to ‘the very top of English, European, and world football’.

As part of his plan to renovate the club, he has already made significant strides, beginning with reorganising the boardroom. Ratcliffe started by bringing in players like Jean-Claude Blanc and Sir David Brailsford before going to Manchester City’s Omar Berrada.

In addition, the INEO chief has been hard at work finalising a contract for Dan Ashworth, who was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle United in February. Ratcliffe hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down as the summer transfer season gets underway, with player recruitment now taking precedence.

The Red Devils have already been strongly linked to a number of well-known players, including Joao Neves and Jarrad Branthwaite. Another player who has been mentioned as a possible target is Michael Olise, following another poor season from Antony.

Having stated that, the Manchester Evening News has examined the possible lineup for the Red Devils during the first weekend of the next Premier League season.

defence
Andre Onana ought to stay in the goal. The 28-year-old custodian showed signs of tremendous promise during his first season at Old Trafford, despite some dubious outcomes. The club’s dismal defensive record is primarily the result of injuries, a porous backline, and a dearth of midfield protection.

Luke Shaw, a left-back for Manchester United, is among the top full-backs in the Premier League and possibly all of Europe on his best days. Ratcliffe will be hoping Tyrell Malacia can be a possibility while he heals from his horrific injury because, regrettably, he finds it difficult to keep in shape.

In order to secure a Champions League spot and move up into the top four, the Reds will require a strong center-half combination. Lisandro Martinez should be partnered at the back by Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, with Harry Maguire and Lille’s Leny Yoro.

After United has Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka available at right-back, they might consider strengthening their midfield.

midfield
To protect the backline, the Red Devils require a new defensive midfielder. Expectations were not met by Sofyan Amrabat, and Casemiro frequently appeared unprepared and put undue pressure on Kobbie Mainoo.

The adolescent sensation requires space to mature as a player and time to mature as a person. Joao Neves would be an exciting addition to the team in the middle of the park, but they would also need to add an experienced holding man, like Joshua Kimmich.

Assault
Ratcliffe needs to replace Antony with a top-tier right winger if United is to relive the glory days at Old Trafford. Please stand up, Michael Olise. The Crystal Palace charmer would not only get fans up from their seats, but he would also provide the finished product.

Alejandro Garnacho is still a teenager, thus the Reds’ summer transfer window also mostly depends on Marcus Rashford establishing his form again. The 19-year-old Argentinian has come a long way, but like Mainoo, supporters need to have patience and give him the opportunity to make mistakes while he grows.

Thus, United might start a highly potent team on the first weekend of the new Premier League campaign. But Ratcliffe will have to shell out millions upon millions to guarantee himself a spot in the top four and Champions League qualification, at the very least.

Beginning lineup (4-3-3 with a holding midfielder): Michael Olise, Marcus Rashford, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Jarrad Branthwaite, Luke Shaw; Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes