Manchester United: Problem in the goal? Solution could wait

Amorim and the Manchester United Rebuild: A Long-Term Process

In his first press conference of the season, Manchester United coach Rúben Amorim highlighted the improvements at the Carrington training center, which has been renovated with a £50 million investment. Amorim, visibly satisfied, inaugurated the new media theater and answered questions about the upcoming season. Amorim mentioned the changes in the team, including the arrival of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, seeking to give the squad a new boost. He also implemented changes in the preparation for home matches, opting to meet at Carrington before traveling to the stadium.

“We can’t change everything in four weeks,” Amorim stated, highlighting the need for patience in the reconstruction process.

Rúben Amorim

Following the 1-0 defeat against Arsenal, the lack of a new goalkeeper was a topic of debate. Amorim defended Altay Bayindir, who made a mistake that allowed Arsenal to score the winning goal. The coach reiterated his confidence in the group of goalkeepers, including André Onana and Tom Heaton, but acknowledged the difficulty of transforming the team in a short period.

Altay Bayindir’s miscue against Arsenal brought renewed scrutiny on Manchester United’s lack of new signings at goalkeeper.According to sources, the possibility of signing a new goalkeeper was discussed since January, but the reconstruction of the attack was prioritized after a season with few goals. More than £200 million was invested in new offensive players, which could delay other improvements, especially in the goal and midfield. A similar situation was faced by former coach Erik ten Hag in 2022, who prioritized reinforcing other key positions. Ten Hag chose to invest in Lisandro Martínez, Casemiro, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia.

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Onana has had ups and downs at United, including spectacular saves and significant errors. In two years in the Premier League, he has made mistakes that have resulted in goals, and his save percentage is relatively low. United considered other goalkeepers in the transfer market, but did not finalize any deal. Additional funds obtained from potential departures, such as Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund, are expected to be reinvested in a midfielder instead of a goalkeeper. Onana would be available for around £30 million, but there hasn’t been much interest. He is expected to regain his place for the match against Fulham on Sunday and, in principle, will remain United’s starting goalkeeper for at least another year.