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David James says Manchester United will compete with Liverpool for the title next season if they do this one thing

Mehdi Gokal

Mon 26 May 2025 19:15, UK

Manchester United’s disappointing season came to an end on Sunday night, with a 2-0 win over Aston Villa.

The result offered little consolation as the Red Devils finished 15th in the table with just 42 points, marking their worst-ever finish in the Premier League era.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
14	West HamWest Ham	38	11	10	17	46	62	-16	43
15	Man UtdManchester United	38	11	9	18	44	54	-10	42
16	WolvesWolves	38	12	6	20	54	69	-15	42

Last week, they had a chance to salvage their season in the Europa League final, but that too ended in disappointment as they lost to Tottenham, who lifted their first trophy in 17 years.

Ruben Amorim’s future at United was uncertain after the final defeat, with suggestions that he would walk away. However, the Portuguese coach chose to stay on and informed the squad of his decision on Saturday.

Attention now turns to a crucial summer for Man United, with Amorim expected to lead a major squad overhaul backed by INEOS. And David James has made an interesting prediction about United ahead of next season.

David James backs Man United to compete with Liverpool and Man City next season

Despite United’s disastrous season, the former England and Liverpool goalkeeper believes Amorim’s side could bounce back strongly if they get one thing right this summer.

James heavily emphasised that the right recruitment is key to success at United, praising Liverpool for how they conducted business over the last few years.

Speaking on Stadium Astro, he said: “Whether it’s going to be a dynasty (for Liverpool) or not I think it’s probably a little bit too premature.

“I think with Man City having such an off-season by their standards and again their recruitment, there is going to be much competition there.

“And you’ll think that I’m saying this because they have won their last game of the season but I think Man United will be up there if Amorim is going to get the way that he wants to do things.

“Liverpool are going to have to recruit the best players in order to give them a chance next year.”

A big summer ahead for Manchester United

The problems at the club run way deeper than just personnel changes. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, many top managers have failed to rebuild a side capable of consistently challenging at the top.

But that is not to disregard the fact there has been some really bad recruitment done by the club. The amount of money spent on players who have failed to make an impact at the club is significant.

INEOS are expected to back Amorim in the transfer market as he plots a major operation of the team. It was previously reported that United will aim to sign five players at least.

It has also been previously reported that a massive exodus is expected, with some big names on the chopping list.

Marcus Rashford is expected to be sold by United, with interest from Aston Villa and Barcelona still there.

Amorim has also asked Alejandro Garnacho to find a new club, with Chelsea strongly linked with a move for him.

The likes of Antony, Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana among others are also expected to be sold.

If the club can successfully execute a squad overhaul in the summer, and bring in the players that suit Amorim’s system, then perhaps United could be seen as top four contenders next season.