FIVE-POINT PLAN

1 RACE OUT THE BLOCKS

United started each of the past three campaigns poorly. The first cost Jose Mourinho his job; the second brought the January signing of Fernandes to save United’s season; and an early slump in 2020- 21 was due to there being almost no pre- season. Start well, make the fans believe, and watch the players’ confidence soar. Don’t start well and criticism of the Glazer family will intensify, even if protests thus far haven’t been about results on the pitch.

2 UNLEASH EL MATADOR

Edinson Cavani needs to be as effective over a campaign as he was in the final quarter of 2020- 21. The Uruguayan, now 34, may not be expected to play more than 60 per cent of available minutes, but that’s still plenty in a season that could bring 55 to 60 games. Last term, Cavani signed late, quarantined, recovered from COVID- 19, was suspended and had three different injuries before that end- of- term flourish. Having changed his mind about going home, he can look forward to a fuller Old Trafford in 2021- 22.

3 IMPROVE HOME FORM

Supporters’ absence affected results ( not to mention the club’s spiralling debt), but it did for every team, and nine wins from 19 games isn’t enough for title hopefuls. The 1,500 rail seats installed for a safe- standing trial and an expanded area of vocal fans in the Stretford End should help – United need their impetus to overcome teams who sit deep at Old Trafford. Now, if Paul Pogba could also bring his France form...

4 STOP RELYING ON THE COMEBACK

Perhaps United’s biggest strength last season is also their biggest weakness. The Red Devils went behind on 17 different occasions last term but still picked up 31 points from those matches, winning 10. No team in Europe’s top five leagues boasted a better come- from- behind record, but starting games on the front foot must become a priority to avoid more stress this time around.

5 REACH THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE KNOCKOUTS

It was an interesting ride, but no more Europa League.