“Just Four Man Utd Stars Safe from Vicious INEOS Cull as Harry Maguire Makes List”

“Just Four Man Utd Stars Safe from Vicious INEOS Cull as Harry Maguire Makes List”

 

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Just Four Man Utd Stars Safe from Vicious INEOS Cull as Harry Maguire Makes List

 

Manchester United are preparing for one of the most ruthless overhauls in their modern history, with reports indicating that only four senior players are considered “untouchable” by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS regime ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The rest of the squad, including some big-name signings and long-serving figures, could be moved on if the right offers come in—ushering in a bold new era at Old Trafford.

 

In what’s being described internally as a “cultural reset,” United’s sporting hierarchy has decided that sentimentality, reputations, and transfer fees from the past will no longer protect underperforming or inconsistent players. The goal is clear: reduce the wage bill, modernize the squad, and build a team that reflects professionalism, tactical intelligence, and long-term ambition.

 

Perhaps most surprisingly, Harry Maguire—a figure once ridiculed and nearly offloaded—is one of the four players now deemed essential. This inclusion reflects a dramatic reversal in fortunes for the England international, and a wider shift in values under INEOS leadership.

 

 

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The “Safe Four”: Who Makes the Cut?

 

According to sources close to the club, only the following four players are considered safe from transfer or release this summer:

 

1. Kobbie Mainoo

 

 

2. Alejandro Garnacho

 

 

3. Rasmus Højlund

 

 

4. Harry Maguire

 

 

 

Each of these names represents a different aspect of what INEOS now values at Manchester United.

 

Kobbie Mainoo: The Crown Jewel

 

The teenage midfielder has emerged as one of the brightest talents to come through the club’s academy in decades. After a breakout 2024/25 season in which he showed maturity beyond his years, Mainoo is seen as the heartbeat of the new United.

 

Quick, composed, and tactically versatile, Mainoo is not only untouchable but considered a future club captain. INEOS want to build around him and see him as a cornerstone for both footballing and commercial projects going forward.

 

Alejandro Garnacho: The Game-Changer

 

The Argentine winger’s pace, confidence, and flair have made him a fan favorite—and a nightmare for defenders. Garnacho played a pivotal role throughout the season, providing crucial goals and assists when United needed inspiration.

 

At just 20 years old, he’s seen as part of United’s next golden generation. The club will reject all inquiries for him, no matter the offer. Sponsors, fans, and management all agree: Garnacho stays.

 

Rasmus Højlund: The Long-Term No. 9

 

The Danish striker endured a mixed first year at Old Trafford but still managed to hit double figures in goals, showing flashes of the striker he could become. At 22, Højlund has the physical tools and attitude to grow into a complete forward.

 

United believe a stable midfield and better service will unlock his true potential. He’s not being judged solely on last season’s numbers but on long-term projection.

 

Harry Maguire: Redemption and Reliability

 

Perhaps the most shocking inclusion, Maguire’s return to form in the second half of the 2024/25 season has not gone unnoticed. With injuries plaguing the backline, he stepped up as a leader, and his no-nonsense defending brought consistency in a turbulent campaign.

 

While once close to being sold, INEOS now view Maguire as a valuable senior figure—experienced, committed, and accepting of rotation. With Raphael Varane departing and Lisandro Martínez’s injury issues, Maguire provides depth and dressing room leadership.

 

 

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Who’s at Risk?

 

The remaining squad is under intense review. According to club insiders, no one else is guaranteed to stay. That includes:

 

Bruno Fernandes: The captain remains a vital figure but may be sold if he pushes for a move or if a major bid arrives. He wants to play Champions League football, and interest from Saudi Arabia and top European clubs is strong.

 

Marcus Rashford: After a disappointing season on and off the pitch, Rashford’s future is unclear. Once a club talisman, he now faces serious questions about form, focus, and fit in Ten Hag’s system.

 

Casemiro: His legs appear to have gone, and with massive wages to match, United are actively looking for a buyer—potentially in the Saudi Pro League.

 

Jadon Sancho: His bust-up with Ten Hag and inconsistent loan spell at Dortmund mean his United career is likely over.

 

Antony: An £85m signing who has failed to live up to expectations. The club would be open to selling him if a suitable offer arises.

 

Christian Eriksen, Scott McTominay, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelöf, and Donny van de Beek are all either surplus to requirements or vulnerable to incoming replacements.

 

 

Even summer arrivals from the past two years—like Mason Mount or André Onana—aren’t immune. While the club won’t force players out, every contract is now subject to performance-based reviews.

 

 

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INEOS and the New Order

 

Since acquiring a 27.7% stake and assuming control over sporting operations, INEOS has moved swiftly to implement a more rigorous and transparent structure. Under the guidance of Sir Dave Brailsford and new football director Jason Wilcox, United are prioritizing:

 

High-intensity football

 

Professionalism and off-pitch conduct

 

Youth integration

 

Value-for-money recruitment and contracts

 

 

Their approach is modeled more closely on clubs like Manchester City and Bayern Munich—institutions known for cohesion, athleticism, and clear tactical identity.

 

By limiting the “safe list” to just four players, INEOS are sending a clear message: no one is bigger than the club, and reputations will no longer secure starting places or inflated wages.

 

 

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Ten Hag’s Role and Uncertain Future

 

Amidst this shakeup, Erik ten Hag’s own future remains under scrutiny. While he’s still under contract, INEOS are conducting a performance review that includes results, dressing room dynamics, and long-term alignment.

 

Ten Hag has reportedly accepted the culling plan and supports the push for a leaner, hungrier squad. But if results don’t improve, especially in the early part of next season, United may yet opt for a change in the dugout too.

 

 

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Fan Reaction and Club Direction

 

Supporters have met news of the impending overhaul with mixed emotions. Many are pleased to see underperformers finally being held accountable, but others are concerned that too much change at once could destabilize the club.

 

Still, most fans agree: the complacency of recent seasons must end. The club’s bloated wage structure and inconsistent recruitment have led to mediocrity. The INEOS approach—harsh though it may seem—is seen by many as a necessary evolution.

 

 

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Conclusion

 

With only four players considered untouchable—Mainoo, Garnacho, Højlund, and Maguire—Manchester United are entering an unprecedented summer of transition. Backed by INEOS, the club is aiming to reset its identity, values, and on-pitch competitiveness through tough decisions and long-term vision.

 

No one is safe from scrutiny. But for the first time in years, it appears Manchester United are ready to act like a club that truly wants to return to the top—not just

talk about it.

 

 

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Would you like a graphic list or infographic version of the “safe” and “at-risk” players for visual use?