manchester United’s Europa League final defeatwas more than just a failure to win a trophy; it signaled a structural crisis at the club. the aftermath has been tumultuous, with a reorganization of the squad, the departure of the manager, and financial losses. here’s a roundup of where United are headed after the final.

1. making the worst season since 1974 official

in May 2025, Manchester United’s European career came to an end when they lost 0:1 to Tottenham in the Europa League final, officializing their worst result since relegation in 1974 and putting them in a position to finish the season in 17th place, their lowest position in the Premier League since its inception, if they lost to Aston Villa in the final round.

2. garnacho fuels bench talk and transfer speculation

final bench on the line… squad conflict bubbling to the surface

despite starting every game in the Europa League, Alejandro Garnacho was only substituted in the 71st minute of the final, sparking controversy, especially when his brother Roberto publicly expressed his anger on social media.

a breakdown of trust with the coach

head coach Hubeng Amorim responded by criticizing Garnacho, saying, “Who was the player who missed the chance in the semifinal?”, suggesting a complete breakdown of trust betweenplayer and manager. the possibility of a summer transfer is becoming a reality.

3. bruno Fernandez accelerates transfer speculation with shocking comments

after the final, Bruno hinted at a possible movewhen he said, “If a club wants to make money off me, I have no choice but to accept it.” With Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal showing strong interest, United have every incentive to sell him to free up funds.

4. kobi Mainu, an unreliable prospect

academy standout Mainu has also been marginalized under Amorim. Having been introduced in extra time in the final, he has effectively been written out of the team’s future plans, and speculation is rife that a move is only a matter of time.

5. hubeng Amorim, a discredited coach in a precarious position

just six wins in 26 league games. amorim’s record is abysmal. given the precedent of Ten Haag, Moyes, and Van Gaal all being sacked after Champions League failures in the past, he too is in a dangerous situation.

but he still has the confidence of the owner

jim Ratcliffe handpicked him and spoke of a long-term project, but the fans have already turned their backs. he’s likely to be given a reprieve before the start of next season, but if that fails, it’s only a matter of time before he’s sacked.

6. out of the Champions League, a change in transfer market strategy

having lost more than £100 millionin Champions League revenue by losing the final, Unitedhave decided that restructuring comes before signing players. mateusz Cunha’s arrival has already been confirmed, but further signings are unlikely without a sale.

more player departures

bruno, Garnacho, and Mainu could all be on the selling list, which is directly linked to the club’s financial recovery. Without Champions League football, the team is also limited in its ability to attract world-class players.

7. one chance: ‘no’ European competition

the only positive for United is the lack of European competition next season, which could be the perfect environment for Mourinho to establish his tactical colors.

however, if he fails to capitalize on that opportunity, there is a strong fear that the manager will be sacked and the team will be rebuilt at the same time.

summary and outlook

• united’s Europa League final defeat seals worst season ever
• key players are likely to leave: Garnacho, Bruno, and Mourinho
• manager Amorim loses credibility, but owners intend to keep him
• financial crisis after missing out on Champions League, selling prioritized over signings
• no European fixtures next season is their only chance to rebound

as a result, Manchester United is now at a crossroads: sticking to the wrong course will prolong the crisis; restructuring, financial savings, and tactical innovation are needed simultaneously; and “rebuilding a great name” remains a matter of action, not rhetoric.