Scott McTominay and Fred difference might determine who leaves Manchester United

As much as the spending gets everyone excited and optimistic, it can't be all new arrivals this summer and some players will have to leave Old Trafford.

Though Manchester City's treble triumph gave a final sting, it has been a year of progress for Manchester United. In 12 short months, Erik ten Hag had inherited a team lacking in confidence, organisation and discipline and moulded them into a cohesive unit which has won a trophy and returned to the Champions League. All while restoring hope and excitement in a beleaguered fan base.

But his job is far from over. United remain a distance off competing with their neighbours for the Premier League title and to go to that extra level more changes will have to be made in the squad.

It's clear where reinforcements are needed. A striker has to be the top priority given United's struggles in front of goal. Only Aston Villa and Fulham scored fewer out of the teams that finished in the top 10 last season.

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The back-line could once again see investment as another centre-back to replace the likely departing Harry Maguire is on the agenda as well potentially a new right-back. Then there is midfield.

It's the area of the field most important for Ten Hag to get right so he can get his team playing the style he wants. Casemiro and Christian Eriksen were excellent in their debut campaigns but as both are over 30 more quality is needed alongside them.

That's because United's other senior midfielders have not been good enough consistently enough. Fred showed flashes last season and put in some big performances in massive games but remains too error-prone to ever be a regular starter.

Scott McTominay is very similar