Six Players Man United Need To Drop To The Bench If They Want To Play Better In Their Next Match
Manchester United’s 2024/25 season has been a mixed bag of highs and crushing lows. While individual moments of brilliance have kept them afloat in the Premier League and European competitions, inconsistency and tactical dysfunction have repeatedly derailed momentum. The harsh truth is that some of these issues stem from underperforming or tactically unsuitable players who continue to start week in, week out. If United want to salvage the rest of their season and play better in upcoming matches, a bold reshuffling of the starting XI is necessary.
Here are six players Manchester United need to drop to the bench if they want to improve their performances:
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1. Antony
The Brazilian winger has failed to justify his hefty price tag since arriving from Ajax. Inconsistent on the ball, predictable in his movement, and largely ineffective in the final third, Antony has become more of a liability than a creative spark. Opposing defenders often find it easy to anticipate his trademark move of cutting in on his left foot, and his lack of right-footed threat makes him one-dimensional.
More concerning is his work rate off the ball and his decision-making under pressure. United need their wide players to be dynamic, unpredictable, and defensively disciplined—qualities Antony is yet to consistently show. Dropping him to the bench in favor of a more in-form or tactically flexible winger like Amad Diallo, Garnacho, or even Bruno Fernandes out wide (in emergencies) could bring the balance and creativity the team is missing.
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2. Casemiro
This might feel controversial, considering Casemiro’s reputation and success at Real Madrid, but it’s time for a reality check. The Brazilian has looked off the pace all season—struggling with the tempo of the Premier League, losing defensive duels, and being bypassed in midfield transitions. His positioning has become erratic, and he has been frequently exposed by faster, more dynamic opposition midfields.
Given his age and recent injury struggles, Casemiro may be more effective coming off the bench or playing selective matches. Starting a more mobile midfield trio—perhaps Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay, and Bruno Fernandes—could offer United greater balance and energy in the middle of the park.
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3. Harry Maguire
Despite some improved performances in 2024, Harry Maguire remains a divisive figure in United’s backline. His lack of pace and tendency to get caught out against quick counter-attacking sides is a persistent problem. While he brings aerial dominance and occasional leadership, Maguire often slows down United’s build-up play and struggles when the defensive line is pushed high.
With players like Lisandro Martínez returning from injury and Raphael Varane offering more composure and mobility, it’s time for Maguire to be rotated out of the starting lineup. Victor Lindelöf or even Jonny Evans, in certain low-block games, have looked more in sync with Erik ten Hag’s defensive philosophy.
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4. Diogo Dalot
Dalot has had moments of brilliance, but overall, his inconsistency is hurting United. As a full-back, his defensive lapses and poor positioning have repeatedly cost the team goals. Going forward, he can deliver a good cross, but he often takes too long to release the ball or misjudges attacking moves. His tendency to drift inside leaves space behind him, which opponents have exploited far too easily.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, while limited in the attacking third, offers more defensive solidity and one-on-one prowess. Against teams that press high or attack down the flanks, Wan-Bissaka should be the go-to starter. Alternatively, introducing younger full-backs or trying a three-at-the-back system could allow Dalot to be used more effectively as a wing-back rather than a traditional full-back.
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5. Marcus Rashford
This one might sting for many United fans, but Rashford’s performances this season have been far from convincing. Aside from a few standout moments, he’s lacked the urgency, precision, and work rate expected from a player of his caliber. His body language often suggests frustration, and he tends to drift out of games far too easily.
What’s more concerning is that he’s not tracking back enough or pressing aggressively, which leaves the team vulnerable on transitions. With Alejandro Garnacho emerging as a more consistent and enthusiastic wide forward, and Rasmus Højlund settling into the central role, it may be time for Rashford to take a break from the starting XI and regain focus. A spell on the bench could reignite his hunger and relieve some pressure.
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6. Christian Eriksen
Eriksen’s vision and passing range are still world-class, but his mobility and stamina have significantly declined. In fast-paced games, he’s often overrun in midfield, offering little defensive resistance and getting caught out of position. His lack of pressing intensity disrupts United’s attempt to win the ball back high up the pitch.
Ten Hag has several options to fill the creative midfield role—whether it’s Bruno Fernandes dropping deeper, the energetic Kobbie Mainoo taking more responsibility, or even rotating in McTominay for a more physical presence. Eriksen can still be a valuable impact substitute, especially when United are chasing a goal and need to unlock a compact defense.
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Conclusion
Manchester United are at a critical juncture. Their inconsistency cannot be fixed solely through tactics or signings; tough decisions must be made about team selection. Dropping big-name players is never easy, but meritocracy must prevail if United are to improve.
Erik ten Hag must show the courage to bench players like Antony, Casemiro, and Rashford when they underperform and give others the chance to shine. Youngsters like Garnacho and Mainoo, as well as overlooked squad members, have shown they are capable of raising the team’s level. If United want to turn their fortunes around in the next match—and beyond—prioritizing form and tactical balance over reputation is non-negotiable.
By benching these six players and reshuffling the starting lineup, Manchester United might finally find the chemistry and consistency they’ve been lacking.
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