Make or break: Five Man United players with a point to prove this season

Manchester United head into the new season determined to bounce back from last season’s disappointment — and several players must step up to make that happen. Here are five players with a point to prove.

Andre Onana

The goalkeeper has been unreliable since joining United. Due to his unconvincing performances, the club has been linked with several goalies, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, Senne Lammens and Emiliano Martinez.

However, United will reportedly not buy a new goalkeeper unless Onana is sold, which is presently unlikely. This means he will be the first choice this season, allowing him the chance to silence critics.

Luke Shaw

Described as a ‘world-class player’ by manager Ruben Amorim, Shaw has struggled with injuries in the past two seasons.

He could play a vital role at the start of the new season as he is one of the candidates to play at left centre-back due to the absence of Lisandro Martinez, who is just recovering from a long-term injury.

With two years left on his contract, United may decide to sell him next summer if his fitness struggles persist.

Manuel Ugarte

Ugarte was a regular in the starting line-up at the start of last season but eventually lost his place to Casemiro.

While United have reportedly told Casemiro that he is not in Amorim’s plans for this campaign, Ugarte is still not guaranteed to be a regular, particularly if the club sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton.

The Uruguayan must prove his quality to secure his future at Old Trafford.

Mason Mount

Mount can play in the number 10 role, making him a perfect fit for Amorim, but he has been plagued by injuries since he joined Man United, hindering him from nailing a starting berth.

The arrival of forwards Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo has further reduced his chances of getting into the starting XI. However, he is highly rated by Amorim and will have some game time, but he has to stay fit.

Man United could try to move him on next summer if he does not overcome his fitness struggles and impress in the new campaign.

Joshua Zirkzee

The Dutch forward joined Man United after a promising season in the Serie A, and it was thought that he could help solve United’s goalscoring problems.

However, he performed poorly as a striker but fared better as number 10, which could be one reason United are not agitating to sell him just yet. That could change next summer with another disappointing campaign.

Article written by Henry Thornton .