United’s Ideal £150m Transfer Window: Yoro, Branthwaite, and De Ligt Join the Squad
In a simulated 2024/25 season, Manchester United saw defenders Jarrad Branthwaite, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro added to their lineup. The simulation explored the potential outcomes if these transfers materialized.
United’s Defensive Strategy
Manchester United, in need of strengthening their defense, targeted Jarrad Branthwaite, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro. Following Raphael Varane’s departure and Victor Lindelof’s potential exit, reinforcing the backline was a priority for Erik ten Hag’s team.
Transfer Details and Agreements
Personal terms with De Ligt were settled, and Yoro agreed to join despite Real Madrid’s interest. United continued pursuing Branthwaite after their initial bids were turned down.
Simulation Setup and Results
Using Football Manager 2024, the trio was added to United’s roster for a combined cost of £150 million. The simulation highlighted how these new additions impacted the team’s performance in the 2024/25 season.
Defensive Lineup and Player Performance
Ten Hag opted to frequently feature his new defenders, shifting Lisandro Martinez to midfield. This strategic change allowed the newcomers to regularly showcase their skills.
– De Ligt and Branthwaite: Formed the most consistent defensive partnership, with Branthwaite making 41 appearances, one more than De Ligt.
– Yoro:Integrated gradually into the squad, achieving an average rating of 7.03 in his 28 appearances and contributing five assists, matching De Ligt’s rating and outperforming Branthwaite (6.98).
Best XI of the Season
At the season’s end, Football Manager 2024 assembled United’s best XI based on performance and statistics:
– Formation (4-3-3): Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Branthwaite, Shaw; Martinez, Fernandes, Mainoo; Garnacho, Hojlund, Rashford.
– De Ligt and Branthwaite featured as the central defensive pair, while Yoro was not included. Martinez’s midfield shift proved effective, and new signing Joshua Zirkzee did not make the cut due to Hojlund’s superior goal tally.
Season Performance and Achievements
With the new defenders settling well, United significantly improved in the Premier League:
– Final Standings: Fifth place with 73 points (20 wins, 13 draws, 5 losses), a 13-point increase from the previous season.
– Defensive Record: Joint-best in the league with Tottenham, conceding only 31 goals.
– European Success: Secured Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League, defeating Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the final with Marcus Rashford scoring twice.
Conclusion
The simulation suggests that signing Branthwaite, De Ligt, and Yoro could considerably enhance United’s defense and overall performance, potentially leading to European success and improved league standings.
