Here’s how Man Utd might play under Julian Nagelsmann with an exciting new system and four players left out
Manchester United might be in for some big changes if Julian Nagelsmann takes over from Michael Carrick. After the tough 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League, there are more and more questions about Carrick’s role as manager. Many fans feel it’s just a matter of time before he’s replaced, and recent reports say Nagelsmann, the former Germany and Bayern Munich boss, is one of the top choices to step in at Old Trafford.
So, what could Nagelsmann bring to United? SPORTbible has taken a look at some major moves he might make, and it might mean big changes for some of the club’s star players.
Anyone coming into the current United squad will likely want the freedom to make big changes to turn things around. For example, Antonio Conte, another favorite to replace Carrick, would almost certainly switch to his preferred 3-4-3 formation if he got the job. But Nagelsmann isn’t far behind with his own ideas. At Bayern, he used a less common narrow 4-2-2-2 setup, often with players like Sadio Mane and Serge Gnabry upfront switching places with Jamal Musiala and Thomas Muller. This shows he’s not afraid to make big moves and drop key players if he thinks it will help.
At United, we can expect the same, with new signings and formation changes possibly meaning as many as four big names could be on the bench.
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens has done well and looks set to keep his spot after joining from Royal Antwerp. But in defense, changes could come soon. Lisandro Martinez’s future seems uncertain after his recent interview post-Atletico Madrid loss, and he might be replaced by Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. Schlotterbeck has worked a lot with Nagelsmann on the German national team and has been linked with moving to the Premier League, with United having a good chance if they meet his release clause.
Another player who could join to reunite with Nagelsmann is German left-back David Raum, who would likely start ahead of Luke Shaw or Patrick Dorgu. The defense might also include Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui keeping their places.
In midfield, Nagelsmann might bring in VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, known for his great passing and ability to connect defense and attack. He would play alongside Carlos Baleba, United’s recent signing who offers strong ball-winning skills, possibly replacing Kobbie Mainoo.
Up front, Amad and Matheus Cunha could provide strong attacking options, giving the team four attacking players on the field. Unfortunately, that might mean captain Bruno Fernandes misses out. After months of doubts about his future and a recent critical interview about Carrick and the club’s staff, it looks like Fernandes might not stay once his contract ends this summer.
Other squad players Nagelsmann might rely on include Bryan Mbeumo, one of the few bright spots this season, and Benjamin Sesko, who should return in the new year after a shin injury.
With these possible changes, a big shift in Manchester United’s lineup and style could be on the horizon if Nagelsmann takes charge. Fans will be watching closely to see what comes next!