Jose Mourinho has a lot of work on his hands if he is to turn this Manchester United team into a title-winning one. The side that was left by Sir Alex need some refreshing but David Moyes hardly added any fresh faces. While Louis Van Gaal did spend a lot of money to rebuild the squad, United don’t find themselves much further ahead than where Moyes left them. Despite not being in Europe’s premier competition next season, United have been able to attract some major names already this season. While lesser known Eric Bailly was the first signing of the Mourinho era, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan have been added to the ranks as well. If rumours are to be believed, then former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba could be in line for a return to for a world record fee.
Dream XI:
David De Gea- By far one of the best goalkeepers in the League and there’s no one in the world who could replace him at United currently.
Matteo Darmian- Darmian has been good in patches and he has shown that he has what it takes to succeed in the Premier League.
Chris Smalling- Smalling was one of the best defenders in the League last season. With Bailly being signed as well, Smalling is the best choice.
Eric Bailly- United needed another centre back to sure up things. Although, Blind did an admirable job as a make-shift centre-back. Bailly might not be that well known by many, but Mourinho knows what he’s doing. He was the one who brought on Varane and Zouma for Real Madrid and Chelsea respectively.
Luke Shaw- Shaw was having a terrific season before suffering a horrific season-ending injury against PSV Eindhoven. Although just 21 years old, he’s already shown a lot of what he can do. He’s just going to get better with age.
Paul Pogba- If reports are to be believed than this dream of Pogba returning might soon be a reality. He left United because Sir Alex wasn’t prepared to give him the playing time he wanted and has transformed himself into one of the best midfielders in the world. He’s still just 23 and will only get better as he develops further.
Nemanja Matic- Matic has been absolutely incredible since resigning for Chelsea. There were reports earlier on that Mourinho might be looking to sign his former player and although it’s highly unlikely Chelsea will sell such a key player to a major rival, Mourinho’s presence makes things interesting.
Anthony Martial- Martial was one of United’s best players last season. He also ended up as their top scorer. He’s versatile up front being able to play as a number 9 or out wide on the left-hand side. He’s also very young still and could become one of the most lethal strikers in the world.
Wayne Rooney- There’s been a lot of debate about Wayne Rooney’s best position and Mourinho has made it clear he’s not going to play him too deep. Wherever he decides to play him, Rooney is United’s talisman and skipper and needs to be playing.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan- Henrikh Mkhitaryan has had a good three years with Dortmund. He will bring the much-needed creativity that United need. He’s shown that he not only creates goals but scores as well. He is a very good addition to the squad.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic- His record speaks for itself. He has been performing at the highest level for many years now. A title winner in 4 different countries.
Reality XI:
Goalkeeper: David De Gea
Defenders: Matteo Darmian, Chris Smalling, Eric Bailly and Luke Shaw
Ander Herrera- Ander Herrera has grown to be a crowd favourite in his short time at United so far. He seems willing and determined to impress the new manager.
Michael Carrick- Carrick could well be in his last season at Manchester United. However, even at the age of 34, he’s proven to be instrumental. He’s one of the few people left in the squad from years of dominance under Sir Alex.