Why Manchester United did not sign a midfielder in summer transfer window

Manchester United’s transfer window has been the subject of fierce debate, not for who they signed, but for who they didn’t. Despite links to several top midfielders and cries from fans for reinforcements in the middle of the park, the Red Devils ultimately opted against bringing in a new addition to their midfield. Club insiders insist the decision was deliberate, rooted in confidence in the squad’s current balance and the financial realities of the market.

The midfield department at Old Trafford already boasts a blend of experience, creativity, and emerging youth. Bruno Fernandes continues to be the heartbeat of United’s playmaking, while Casemiro provides steel and stability in front of the back line. Add to that Manuel Ugarte’s versatility, Mason Mount’s energy, and Kobbie Mainoo’s growing maturity, and United believe they already have the depth required to navigate the season.

For new manager Ruben Amorim, the challenge has not been about numbers but about integration and consistency. Fernandes and Casemiro have started every Premier League match so far this season, cementing themselves as the spine of the midfield. Amorim’s task has been to strike the right balance between his established stars and the younger players who are eager to step up.

United’s recruitment strategy this summer revolved heavily around strengthening other areas. With the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko in attack, the club committed over £215 million to fortify its frontline. Given such an outlay, splashing another nine-figure sum on a midfielder became unrealistic. Brighton, for instance, slapped a reported £100 million price tag on Carlos Baleba, effectively putting United off any serious pursuit.

The decision not to sign a midfielder was also tied to the club’s philosophy regarding youth development. Kobbie Mainoo, one of United’s brightest academy graduates, had been exploring the possibility of a loan move to gain regular minutes. Yet Amorim blocked that request, insisting the youngster stay and fight for his place. For the Portuguese coach, Mainoo represents the future of United’s midfield, and nurturing his growth within the squad was a greater priority than adding another expensive recruit.

Toby Collyer, another promising youngster, was treated differently. He was sent out on a season-long loan to West Bromwich Albion, with the aim of securing valuable first-team football. This dual approach to youth—keeping some prospects close while giving others opportunities elsewhere—underscores United’s longer-term plan of developing a sustainable core rather than chasing quick fixes.

Mainoo’s role in particular has already been highlighted early this season. He featured against Grimsby in the Carabao Cup and was called upon as a substitute against Burnley after Mason Mount picked up a knock. These appearances reflect Amorim’s faith in him and serve as early proof that the decision to trust youth over transfers was more than just rhetoric.

Of course, not all supporters are convinced. Many still point to the intensity of the Premier League season and the risk of injuries as reasons why United should have gone all-in for a world-class midfielder. The specter of fatigue, especially for veterans like Casemiro, looms large. Critics argue that if United suffer injuries in midfield, the lack of fresh recruits could prove costly in the title race and European campaigns.

Yet within the club, the sentiment is one of calm determination. The belief is that Fernandes, Casemiro, Mount, Ugarte, and Mainoo offer enough diversity of skillsets to cover a demanding schedule. Amorim’s system also places heavy emphasis on tactical discipline and collective pressing, meaning United’s midfield is expected to function as a unit rather than relying on individual brilliance alone.

Financial considerations also cannot be ignored. Having already invested heavily in attacking reinforcements, United’s leadership is conscious of balancing the books, particularly with Financial Fair Play regulations tightening their grip. Spending £100 million or more on a midfielder this summer might have jeopardized flexibility for future windows, where other positions could take priority.

In the end, United’s decision not to sign a midfielder reflects a combination of faith, strategy, and pragmatism. Faith in the current squad to deliver, strategy in nurturing young talents like Mainoo, and pragmatism in avoiding inflated prices. Time will ultimately judge whether the Red Devils were wise to hold back or whether they will rue a missed opportunity. For now, Amorim stands by his choices, and United march into the season trusting that their midfield, as it is, can rise to the challenge.