Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show What will Man United's midfield look like next season?
8 snips
Mar 23, 2026 
Andy Mitten, longtime Manchester United journalist with inside-club reporting; Carl Anka, tactical writer with historical context; Laurie Whitwell, detailed transfers and tactics analyst. They debate midfield priorities for a 60-game season. Shortlists of potential signings are discussed. The urgent need for a defensive six, rotation plans, and how contracts, wages and rival interest shape recruitment are explored.
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Two Midfielders Are Non Negotiable
- Manchester United need two central midfield signings this summer to cope with a longer season and probable Casemiro exit.
- Andy Mitten says squad depth is essential because European football demands more minutes and current options like Manuel Ugarte have underperformed.
Casemiro Replacement Is Multi Faceted
- Replacing Casemiro is complex because his role combined tackling, positional intelligence, aerial threat and progressive passing.
- Carl Anka highlights the market prefers 25-year-olds and clubs now target hybrid six/eight players rather than older single trait specialists.
Casemiro's Leadership And Locker Room Gestures
- Casemiro has mentored younger players and made gestures like giving Tyrell Malacia an FA Cup medal he didn't play for.
- Ian Irving and Andy Mitten recount Casemiro sitting down with Toby Collier and gifting that medal.
