Manchester United to Release Three Players as Club Prepares for Summer Rebuild
As the 2024/25 season draws to a disappointing close, Manchester United have made a clear decision to part ways with three senior players once their contracts expire this summer. The move signals the beginning of a broader rebuild as the club looks to bounce back from one of the most underwhelming campaigns in its modern history.
Sources close to Old Trafford indicate that United will not offer new deals to defenders Jonny Evans and Brandon Williams, while midfielder Tom Heaton is also set to leave the club. All three players will become free agents at the end of June.
A Season to Forget
Manchester United currently sit 15th in the Premier League after 35 matches, having suffered 16 defeats and secured just 10 wins. The latest setback — a 4-3 loss to Brentford on May 4 — perfectly encapsulated the chaos that has engulfed the team this season. Defensive lapses, inconsistent performances, and injuries have plagued the squad throughout the campaign, leaving both fans and the hierarchy frustrated.
What began with Erik ten Hag at the helm quickly shifted under new head coach Ruben Amorim, who took charge in February. However, the Portuguese tactician has also struggled to find consistency amid mounting pressure and a fractured squad.
Evans and Williams Departing
Jonny Evans, 36, rejoined United on a short-term deal in 2023, initially seen as an emergency option due to injuries in central defence. While the veteran brought experience and leadership to the dressing room, he was only ever viewed as a temporary solution. Evans made several appearances in the early part of the season but has since slipped down the pecking order following the return of Lisandro Martinez and the emergence of youth prospects.
Brandon Williams, a product of United’s academy, never fully established himself as a regular starter since making his breakthrough in 2019. Following a string of loan spells and sporadic appearances, the 23-year-old has failed to convince both ten Hag and Amorim of his long-term value. With United now prioritising a rebuild focused on youth and consistency, Williams will be allowed to leave in search of more regular football elsewhere.
Tom Heaton’s Final Chapter
Veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton, now 38, is also expected to leave when his contract expires. Heaton was brought in primarily as a third-choice keeper and experienced voice in the dressing room, especially following David de Gea’s departure and the arrival of André Onana. While he never seriously challenged for the No.1 spot, his professionalism and influence behind the scenes have been appreciated.
United are reportedly in the market for a new backup goalkeeper this summer, with Serbian international Vanja Milinković-Savić heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford. Heaton’s exit will likely make room for this signing.
Bigger Changes Looming
While these three departures may seem minor, they represent the first steps in what is expected to be a busy summer for Manchester United. Club officials have acknowledged that significant changes are needed to compete with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal once again.
United are actively scouting reinforcements in several key areas, including centre-forward, central midfield, and defence. The club has already wrapped up a deal for teenage striker Enzo Kana-Biyik, while discussions are ongoing with targets such as Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
Furthermore, players like Casemiro, Raphael Varane, and Jadon Sancho could also be offloaded to free up wages and rebuild the squad with younger, hungrier talent.
Conclusion
The decision to release Jonny Evans, Brandon Williams, and Tom Heaton marks the beginning of a transitional summer for Manchester United. While none of the trio were seen as central figures in the club’s long-term project, their departures open the door for fresh signings and a renewed focus on building a competitive and cohesive squad. For United fans, the hope will be that these are just the first of many smart decisions to come in what must be a crucial summer of change.
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