United's 4-0 defeat to Liverpool underscored the huge gap between England's two major clubs at this moment. United have been behind their opponents since legendary coach Sir Alex Ferguson left the club and now the Premier League battle seems to have a long way to go. The first team, currently coached by Lonnick, needs a radical overhaul in the summer transfer window. In fact, only a handful of players deserve to stay at Old Trafford.
Dean Henderson
David De Gea is the best player of United's post-Ferguson era and it would be brutal to purge him. However, in Dean Henderson, the club saw the potential and ability of an Academy graduate who should have at least one season of a workout position to prove he was the team's long-term solution. At the age of 25, he will leave this summer if his normal playing time on the first team cannot be guaranteed. So, it's time to see what kind of person he is.
Varane
Centre-backs have been a major problem for United in recent years, and they have never been able to find a partner like Vidic and Ferdinand. And, with captain Harry Maguire in a more subdued mood than ever before, the persistence of a four-time Champions League winner becomes even more important. Unfortunately, Varane's first season at Old Trafford has been plagued by injuries, but it's too early to give up on him.
Luke Shaw
Luke Shaw performed well in the 2020-21 season, scoring a goal for England in the Euro 2020-21 final. So, although he is far from being at his best this season, it is worth giving him the opportunity to compete for the main position under new head coach Eric Teng Haag. Shaw also has the advantage of a British hukou book, which is necessary for all Premier League clubs considering the team registration rules.
Bruno-Fernandez
In recent years, players like Kay Havertz and Ndombele have struggled to adapt to the speed of the Premier League, but Bruno Fernandez has struggled. The Portugal international spent an unusual first 18 months in England after coming to England from Portugal and has been in shape recently. But the contribution of 30 goals last season is always hard to replicate, and 15 goals this season aren't bad.
Sancho
Signing Sancho is a long-term investment because he's only 22 years old. And, despite his rise to fame in a seemingly easier league, the Briton tore apart the Bundesliga in four seasons at Borussia Dortmund, so there's no problem with his abilities. In fact, he hasn't found his best form at Old Trafford yet, but who can blame him when the team continues to languish as it is now.