Manchester United rebuild puts 10 players at risk – but Mazraoui is backed to stay

Manchester United are facing a major squad overhaul, with 10 players reportedly at risk of leaving Old Trafford as pressure grows on manager Michael Carrick after a difficult start to the season.

Criticism intensified after Sunday’s 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, when United fell 2-0 behind inside the opening five minutes. Supporters directed strong chants at the players, reflecting growing frustration with the team’s performances and recruitment policy.

Successive managers have failed to solve one of the club’s central problems: assembling a squad capable of restoring Manchester United to the title-contending level expected of them.

According to a report by The Sun, 10 players have been identified as possible departures as part of the expected rebuilding process.

Ten players under threat

Luke Shaw is considered one of the most likely to leave. The England international joined Manchester United in 2014 and is now one of the club’s longest-serving players, while the need to construct a new defence could lead to the departure of established members of the squad.

Diogo Dalot may face a similar outcome after joining the club in 2018. Growing doubts over his long-term position have emerged as United prepare to reshape their squad.

Harry Maguire, who arrived in 2019, is also among the defenders whose future could be reviewed.

Lisandro Martinez’s recent comments about the club have added uncertainty to his position. The report suggests Manchester United’s history indicates that a departure can become increasingly likely when relations between a player and the club deteriorate.

Matthijs de Ligt has not convinced everyone since his arrival, despite his reputation, and fitness problems have affected his consistency. He is therefore another player whose future may be assessed.

Mason Mount has also struggled with injuries and, according to the report, has not done enough with the opportunities available to prove he should remain at Old Trafford.

Joshua Zirkzee has yet to reach the level required to compete consistently in the Premier League and is viewed as one of the leading candidates to leave if United make significant changes.

Manuel Ugarte is in a similar position, with concerns that the midfielder is below the standard required for regular Premier League football.

Bruno Fernandes presents the most complicated case because of his importance as captain. However, his contract situation could lead both sides to consider different options, particularly with his deal due to expire next summer.

Marcus Rashford is viewed as one of the strongest candidates for a permanent departure. The impression that he no longer wants to continue at Old Trafford could make a separation a logical outcome for both parties.

Mazraoui included in plans

Noussair Mazraoui is not included among those considered available for sale. Instead, the report identifies him as a player Manchester United should retain.

His ability to operate at both right-back and left-back gives him added value in a squad that needs greater flexibility and more adaptable solutions.

Goalkeeper Senne Lammens is also regarded as part of the group worth keeping despite his current difficult spell. Young defenders Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro are viewed as players who could help shape the future of the back line.

Kobbie Mainoo is another player United are expected to build around, while Yuri Tielemans, Carlos Baleba and Andre Santos are among the recent arrivals who need time to establish themselves.

Patrick Dorgu, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, Shea Lacey and Benjamin Sesko are also expected to remain part of the rebuilding project.

The final decision will rest with Manchester United’s board and any manager who takes charge if Carrick departs. Current indications, however, suggest the changes could extend well beyond the manager’s position and affect a substantial part of the squad.