Wayne Rooney has named the only two Manchester United players he would keep at the club as he demanded wholesale changes to be made.
Manchester United are currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table after a disappointing season, with little hope of finishing in the top half. Following their FA Cup exit against Fulham, the Europa League remains their only chance for silverware this season, with victory potentially securing Champions League football next year.
With the team struggling to find consistency under manager Ruben Amorim, United legend Wayne Rooney believes drastic measures are needed. Speaking candidly, Rooney suggested the club must overhaul their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window.
During his appearance on the Stick to Football podcast, Rooney made the remarkable claim that only captain Bruno Fernandes and young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo should remain at Old Trafford.
“They look lost. They look scared,” Rooney stated bluntly. “Bruno is the one who keeps producing, he annoys you at times but keeps producing. They need massive changes to the squad, I think 10-15 players need to leave the club. Obviously, they can’t do that, but there is a mentality there where no one is taking responsibility.”
When pushed on which players deserve to remain at the club, Rooney was clear: “I’d keep Bruno and Mainoo. There is a culture at the club where it’s too easy to lose games and the players come out and say, ‘Onto the next one,’ and all that rubbish. Just show some character and fight on the pitch.”
The club’s all-time leading goalscorer revealed his emotional connection to United, adding: “It’s bad watching, it hurts. Being from Liverpool but spending so many years at United, I want the team to do well, I’ve got my kids in the academy, and it hurts watching them.”
Mainoo’s Uncertain Future at Manchester United
Despite Rooney identifying Mainoo as a cornerstone for United’s future, recent reports suggest the young England international may have different plans. According to The Guardian, Mainoo, who currently earns approximately £20,000 per week, intends to reject any new contract offers from Manchester United.
The talented midfielder has garnered significant interest from several clubs:
- Premier League rivals Chelsea have shown serious interest
- Multiple European elite clubs are monitoring his situation
- Reports suggest Mainoo prefers a move abroad over staying in England
Manchester United still hope to convince the academy graduate to commit his future to the club. However, they have reportedly set a £70 million valuation should they be forced to sell one of their brightest prospects.
This potential departure would represent another significant blow to United’s rebuilding efforts, especially considering Rooney’s assessment that Mainoo represents one of just two players worth retaining in the current squad.
For Manchester United supporters, this situation highlights the critical importance of the upcoming summer transfer window. The club must make decisive moves to address the squad’s quality and mentality issues identified by Rooney if they hope to return to challenging for major honors.
What do you think about Rooney’s assessment of the current Manchester United squad? Join the conversation on our social channels and share your thoughts on which players deserve to stay at Old Trafford for the upcoming season.