Phil Bardsley: New Signings Key For Manchester United's Season

Manchester United head into the new season with fresh faces, renewed optimism and the weight of expectation firmly on their shoulders.
After a frustrating campaign that saw them fall short in the league and Europe, fans will be hoping the summer additions can provide the spark needed to push Ruben Amorim’s side back among the elite.
There is an air of optimism around Old Trafford at the moment, and one man who is excited more than most for the season ahead is former player Phil Bardsley.
Speaking exclusively to Gambling.com, the ex-tough-tackling defender gave his thoughts on United's chances in the new campaign.
Exciting Season Ahead
Last season was one to forget for Manchester United, with a 15th-place league finish and defeat in the Europa League final. Despite that, Bardsley has a good feeling about next season after a summer of change at the club.
"It’s a really exciting time,” he said. “The club has addressed the issues in attack and brought in some fantastic players, so I’m eager to see how they settle in.
"When you join Manchester United, you’re expected to hit the ground running. Honestly, I’m as excited for this season as I’ve been in years."
For Bardsley, the difference this time could be the blend of proven Premier League performers with younger talents eager to make their mark. He believes this combination gives the squad a better balance than in recent years.
"There’s no hiding from the fact that last season wasn’t good enough," he added. "We fell short in too many areas, and at times, there was a lack of consistency in performances.
"But I think the recruitment this summer has been smart. We’ve got players coming in who know what the league demands, and that can make all the difference early on.
"Consistency - especially at Old Trafford - will be crucial if United are to turn potential into results."
Bardsley, who will be playing for United in the Manchester Masters on September 5, points to the need for sharper attacking play and the importance of avoiding avoidable mistakes at the back.
"You defend together, just as you attack together. If we get that balance right, there’s no reason why we can’t be right up there."
New Signings Should Fix Attacking Problems
With the arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, United’s transfer business has been focused on fixing the team’s attacking shortcomings.
Having managed just 44 goals last term, only four teams scored fewer in the Premier League. This was one of the reasons for Amorim's side's struggles, but fans will be hoping that the exciting new arrivals can turn things around in front of goal.
Asked if he believes Amorim has brought in enough firepower over the summer, Bardsley said: "Yeah, I think so. I think Cunha’s been an outstanding player for the last two or three seasons at Wolves. It was only a matter of time before someone took a chance on him.
"Looking at what he’s done, he can certainly play at a high level, and I’ve been a big fan of his for quite some time.
"I think he’ll suit United’s style of play perfectly. He’s got that little bit of needle in his game too, which you need in the Premier League.
"He’s tough, but also has real quality. He’s certainly a player I’m excited about.
"Mbeumo has got solid Premier League experience, he’s at a good age and his goal record speaks for itself.
"The only one I probably don’t know too much about is Sesko, to be fair. I’ve seen clips of his goals on YouTube and highlights of what he’s done, but I’d be lying if I said I’ve watched him live.
"I’m just hoping what I’ve seen in those clips translates onto the pitch, and of course, you trust the manager and the recruitment team this window to bring in players of the calibre needed.
"Not just to play for Manchester United, but to score the goals required as well, because that’s an area where we’ve been lacking."
Amorim Needs To Succeed
The upcoming campaign will be defining for United's manager. Having been able to say he doesn't have the players to fit his style, the Portuguese can no longer use that excuse after making a number of signings. The squad now reflects his vision, and the pressure to deliver is huge.
"You want to get off to the best possible start, and the only way to do that is by winning games and having a clear structure," Bardsley said.
"Last year was up and down, no real momentum, and a lack of consistency. That has to change.
"Home form, in particular, must improve.
"Our record against the top sides wasn’t bad, but it was those home games we really should have been winning.
"You want as many points on the board as soon as possible, and starting strong is vital."