Manchester United's season was marked by dramatic peaks and troughs, shaped by several pivotal decisions. Michael Carrick presided over the brightest moments after returning as caretaker manager, with victories over Manchester City and Arsenal in January. The side's form remained strong under Carrick, securing third place and ending with a 3-0 win at Brighton.
However, the outlook was far more uncertain under former boss Ruben Amorim, who was sacked at the turn of the year after a 14-month reign. Amorim had steered United to 15th the previous campaign, but the club sat sixth when he left, within touching distance of a Champions League place, yet clearly underachieving.
Had the hierarchy backed Amorim, the team might have finished sixth with just under 59 points, narrowly missing the last Champions League spot. But a lack of self-belief in his formation could have led to a decline. One consequence might have been Kobbie Mainoo following Marcus Rashford's path and leaving the club, as the young midfielder struggled for minutes under Amorim. Fortunately, Mainoo revived under Carrick, signing a new five-year contract and winning 12 of 16 league starts.
Another alternative decision involved the goalkeeping position. Amorim lost confidence in Andre Onana and selected Altay Bayindir while the club chased a new keeper. They could have signed Aston Villa's Emi Martinez, who would have brought experience and dependability. Instead, they signed Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, a move that raised eyebrows but ultimately paid off.
