
Manchester United’s Lack of Squad Depth: A Recipe for Disaster?
Manchester United has been struggling with squad instability, managerial changes, and inconsistent transfer strategies for years. Every time a new manager arrives, he brings his own playing style and tactical demands, leading to massive squad overhauls. Players who fit the previous manager’s system suddenly become surplus to requirements, while new signings often fail to settle before another managerial change occurs. This vicious cycle has made it difficult for United to build a stable and competitive team.
The current situation under Rúben Amorim highlights these recurring issues. The club has loaned out two wingers—Antony and Marcus Rashford—but failed to sign any replacements. This decision could prove costly if Alejandro Garnacho or Amad Diallo suffer injuries, as United would have no natural wingers to maintain width in attack. At a time when squad depth is crucial for competing on multiple fronts, United appears dangerously thin in key positions.
The Striker Dilemma: From Rasmus Højlund’s Rise to His Struggles
One of the most concerning aspects of Manchester United’s current struggles is the drastic decline in Rasmus Højlund’s form under Rúben Amorim. In his first season under Erik ten Hag, the young Danish striker scored 9 goals in the Premier League and 5 in the UEFA Champions League, despite dealing with injuries. He showed immense promise, proving himself as a lethal finisher with great movement inside the box.
However, under Amorim, Højlund seems lost, struggling to adapt to the new system. This highlights a major issue at United—constant managerial changes often disrupt player development. A striker who thrived in one system may struggle in another, and without a consistent tactical approach, young players like Højlund may fail to reach their full potential.
The Winger Crisis: No Replacements for Antony and Rashford
Loaning out Antony and Rashford without securing replacements is a massive gamble. The club now relies heavily on Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo to deliver consistently. While both are talented, injuries, fatigue, or loss of form could leave United without any natural wide players.
Garnacho has been one of United’s standout performers, but expecting him to carry the entire burden on the left wing for the rest of the season is unrealistic. Similarly, Amad Diallo has talent but is still unproven at the highest level. If either player gets injured, who will provide width, pace, and creativity on the flanks?
The Lack of Squad Depth: A Major Concern
Manchester United is still competing in multiple competitions:
UEFA Europa League
FA Cup
Premier League (fighting for a higher finish)
To compete at the highest level, squad depth is essential. A team cannot go deep into multiple competitions with just one or two reliable options per position. If injuries strike key players, United could face an embarrassing collapse, derailing their season completely.
A Disappointing January Transfer Window
Before the January transfer window, it was clear that United needed reinforcements in attack. However, INEOS’ transfer activity was underwhelming:
Signed Ayden Heaven (18-year-old defender)
Signed Patrick Dorgu (20-year-old left-back)
Loaned out Antony and Rashford
Instead of strengthening areas that needed improvement, United brought in two young defenders. While Heaven and Dorgu may have potential, they are unlikely to make an immediate impact. Meanwhile, the attack has been weakened rather than improved.
United’s defensive issues were clear, but reinforcing the attack was equally important. Fans expected a proven winger or another forward, yet the club failed to deliver. Now, they must rely on an incomplete squad to push for success in multiple competitions.
The Harsh Reality: More Pain Ahead for Manchester United Fans?
Manchester United fans must prepare for a tough second half of the season. The lack of depth means:
If Garnacho or Amad get injured, United will have no proper wingers.
If Højlund continues struggling, there is no alternative striker to rely on.
The squad will be exhausted, making it harder to compete in the Europa League, FA Cup, and Premier League.
The INEOS takeover promised a long-term rebuild, but short-term decisions must also make sense. Loaning out key players without securing proper replacements is poor squad management. For a team to COMPETE, it must be COMPLETE—and right now, Manchester United is far from complete.
Final Thoughts: Is Rúben Amorim to Blame?
Some fans might want to blame Rúben Amorim, but it’s too early to judge him. The coach has not had a full transfer window to make his own signings. However, his tactical setup must improve to get the best out of players like Højlund, Garnacho, and Amad.
For now, Manchester United must pray for luck with injuries and hope that existing players step up. Otherwise, the lack of depth will cost them dearly. More pain could be coming, and unless major changes happen in the summer, the club may repeat the same cycle of struggles, sackings, and rebuilds once again.
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