Antoine Semenyo and Adam Wharton: The missing pieces in Man United’s title puzzle

Once the standard-bearers of English football, Manchester United have spent the post-Sir Alex Ferguson years chasing a Premier League title that used to feel inevitable.

Cup silverware has arrived in fleeting bursts, yet the Premier League, the true measure of dominance, has continued to evade them. But the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS has brought a renewed sense of direction, and their support of Ruben Amorim suggests a long-term strategy aimed at restoring United to former heights.

After a challenging start to life at Old Trafford, Amorim finally appears to be finding his footing. With consistent performances and positive results, a strong league finish and perhaps even silverware may be within reach.

A section of optimistic fans have started to whisper about a potential title charge, and the numbers don’t entirely dismiss the notion. United are sixth in the standings, six points off top spot, but with the team still finding its rhythm under Amorim, a full-blown title fight might be a step too far, too soon.

Amorim’s United remain very much a work in progress, but two potential astute additions could transform the club from hopefuls to genuine contenders – Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth) and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace).

The case for Semenyo

Over the past year, Semenyo has emerged as one of the most potent attackers in the top flight. He bagged a career-high 11 goals, while providing an additional six assists in the Premier League.

So far in the 2025/26 campaign, Semenyo has netted six goals. Only Erling Haaland has found the back of the net more times than the Ghana international. Semenyo’s influence extends far beyond the numbers. His relentless energy, direct running, and unpredictable style have made him a constant menace to opposition defences.

He combines explosive pace with a tireless work ethic, making him one of the most difficult players to contain.

Semenyo is remarkably two-footed, even confessing he doesn’t know which foot is stronger, a trait that makes him equally effective on both wings. This dynamism has given Bournemouth an added dimension in attack, one from which they’ve reaped significant rewards.

Another attribute that makes Semenyo a superb fit for United is his tight control and unique change of pace – a quality that could add a sharper edge to United’s burgeoning attack. The 25-year-old is an excellent ball-carrier, and pairing that with Matheus Cunha’s similar qualities could lift United’s overall play to another level.

A physically imposing forward, Semenyo has honed his ability to hold up play and pin defenders. At a club like United, where Benjamin Sesko already excels in that role, Semenyo would take that dynamic even further, amplifying the impact of runners around him.

Semenyo is entering the prime of his career and appears ready for the step up to a club of United’s stature. For a team striving to return to the summit of English football, he represents a smart acquisition. Reports suggest Ruben Amorim is a fan of the player, meaning he could play a key role in the side.

Additionally, United would benefit from the quality depth Semenyo offers to complement their existing attacking options.

United have seen what signing established Premier League forwards can do, with Mbeumo and Cunha already making waves. Semenyo carries the same promise, and perhaps even more, creating a partnership that feels made in footballing heaven.

The case for Wharton

United’s biggest gap at the moment is their midfield and the club are believed to already be on the lookout for additions in this part of the pitch.

Casemiro’s revival has been impressive, but time is not on his side. United must plan for his eventual replacement, possibly requiring two midfielders to fill the void. Adam Wharton’s skill set makes him a natural candidate to step into this role.

A rare profile of an English footballer, Wharton possesses the skill set that United are sorely missing in the middle of the park – technical security and defensive solidity.

Wharton is an accomplished passer, capable of both progressive distribution and keeping possession. In line with what Amorim expects from his midfield pivot, he excels at line-breaking passes and supplying the two number 10s in the Portuguese coach’s system. He struck a good partnership with Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr, so it’s very easy to see him replicate this with Mbeumo, Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount or Amad. It is an added advantage that he is already familiar with Amorim’s system, which is also employed by Oliver Glasner at Selhurst Park.

At 21, Wharton already possesses an outstanding ability to read games. His vision and movement are remarkable. He finds space, receives on the half turn and moves the ball with one or two touches, forcing opponents into constant readjustment. While his passes are often short and sideways, every touch is purposeful.

While Wharton’s game appears straightforward, it delivers impeccable results, offering the precision and control United require in midfield. Carlos Baleba, once seen as Casemiro’s heir, has struggled for consistency this season, fueling doubts over whether he is the right choice.

With a skill set tailored for the modern era, Wharton represents an ideal fit for a United side aiming to challenge for top honours. While clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Liverpool are reportedly interested, it is crucial that United secure his signature first.

Together, Wharton and Semenyo could serve as key catalysts for United in their pursuit of a 21st Premier League title.