Former England and Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, has lauded the Red Devils for boasting the best and most improved players in the Premier League this season. Despite a rocky start under Ruben Amorim, Manchester United has shown significant improvement since Michael Carrick took over as manager.
Manchester United had a disappointing start to their campaign as they struggled under Ruben Amorim during the first half of the season. The team found themselves outside of top-four places when Amorim was sacked in January. Adding insult to injury, they exited both domestic cup competitions at their earliest stages, including an embarrassing Carabao Cup defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town.
However, fortunes changed for Manchester United after Michael Carrick took over. They finished third in the Premier League table - just seven points behind leaders Manchester City - and secured qualification for next season’s Champions League. Initially expected to be a temporary solution, Carrick's successful stint convinced the United hierarchy to offer him a permanent role.
The standout performer under Carrick's reign has been Bruno Fernandes who set a new Premier League record with 21 assists across this campaign alone. His exceptional performance earned him Player of The Season honors despite stiff competition from several Arsenal players who were also vying for that award after winning their first title in 22 years. Rooney believes that Fernandes was indeed deserving of this accolade stating "it went to the right player."
Most improved player
In addition to praising Fernandes' stellar performance, Rooney also singled out Luke Shaw as being ‘the most improved player’ in this year’s Premier League season. At age 30, Shaw enjoyed one of his most consistent seasons at Old Trafford starting all of United’s Premier League games. His performance made a compelling case for his inclusion in England’s World Cup squad, although Thomas Tuchel ultimately looked elsewhere.
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United legend, said:
‘I think, for me, Luke Shaw. I think Luke Shaw has been the most improved player this season. I know he’s an experienced player now but I think his level this season has been much better than they have been in recent seasons.
‘People might look at Kobbie Mainoo but I don’t think he’s improved it was just the fact he wasn’t playing under the former manager so it wasn’t good or bad.’
Despite a challenging start to the season, Manchester United has shown resilience and improvement under Michael Carrick's leadership. With standout performances from Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw, the team is poised for success in the upcoming season.
