Manchester United are preparing to bring the curtain down on one of the most chaotic and emotionally exhausting seasons in recent memory, with all attention now turning toward a crucial summer rebuild both on and off the pitch.

The Red Devils travel to Brighton this weekend hoping to finish the 2025/26 Premier League campaign on a positive note after months of inconsistency, dressing room uncertainty, and intense media scrutiny. Yet despite the turbulence, there is finally a growing sense of optimism around Old Trafford following the remarkable impact made by interim manager Michael Carrick.

The former United midfielder returned to the club during a moment of crisis earlier this season, inheriting a fractured squad low on confidence after a disastrous run of results. Few expected Carrick to steady the ship so quickly, but under his guidance United surged up the table and eventually secured third place in the Premier League — a finish that once seemed impossible.

Inside the club, players have reportedly been impressed not only by Carrick’s tactical approach but also by the calm atmosphere he has restored behind the scenes. Senior figures within the dressing room are believed to have strongly backed the decision to hand him the role permanently.

Although no official confirmation has yet been made, sources close to the club suggest negotiations are now in the final stages. Carrick is expected to sign a two-year contract with the option of an additional year, though discussions surrounding his coaching staff have slightly delayed the announcement.

For now, Carrick’s immediate focus remains on Sunday’s clash against Brighton at the Amex Stadium. Fabian Hürzeler’s side have proven difficult opponents throughout the season, and United know a victory would provide a fitting conclusion to an otherwise dramatic campaign.

Behind the scenes, however, preparations for the summer transfer window are already accelerating rapidly.

Club executives are believed to be working around the clock to reshape the squad ahead of next season, with several high-profile arrivals and departures expected over the coming months. Among the biggest talking points remains the future of Marcus Rashford, whose loan spell at Barcelona has unexpectedly transformed his career.

After enduring criticism and inconsistent form during his final months at United, Rashford arrived in Spain determined to rebuild both his confidence and reputation. Few could have predicted how successful the move would become.

Under Hansi Flick’s management, the England international rediscovered the explosive form that once made him one of Europe’s most feared forwards. Rashford scored important goals, delivered crucial assists, and played a key role in Barcelona’s domestic success as the Catalan giants lifted both the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup.

Across all competitions, the 28-year-old registered 28 goal contributions in 48 appearances — numbers that quickly convinced Barcelona supporters he should remain at the club permanently.

Now, perhaps more importantly, the Barcelona dressing room appears fully behind the idea as well.

Vice-captain Frenkie de Jong recently offered glowing praise for Rashford while speaking to Spanish outlet Sport, insisting the forward had “earned the right” to continue his journey at the Camp Nou.

“Yes, he deserves to stay,” De Jong explained. “Every time he’s played, he’s brought something important to the team — goals, assists, movement, pace. Defenders struggle against him because he’s so dangerous in open spaces.”

The Dutch midfielder also revealed that Rashford arrived in Barcelona with a completely different mentality compared to the player many had seen struggling in England.

“I saw someone who was excited again,” De Jong continued. “From the first day, it was obvious he really wanted to be here. He worked hard to adapt, and everyone in the squad noticed that immediately.”

According to reports from Spain, several senior Barcelona players have privately urged club directors to complete a permanent deal for Rashford this summer. His professionalism, work ethic, and improved attitude have reportedly made him popular inside the dressing room.

Meanwhile, sources close to Manchester United claim many players at Old Trafford now accept that Rashford’s future likely lies away from the club. Some teammates are believed to feel that a permanent separation could benefit both sides after years of mounting pressure and emotional frustration.

One insider reportedly said: “There’s no bad blood. Everyone knows what Marcus means to the club, but sometimes players need a fresh start. Barcelona brought the best version of him back.”

Rashford himself is also thought to be eager to continue working under Flick, having rebuilt his confidence in Spain after difficult periods in Manchester.

His potential departure would not only mark the end of an era but could also provide United with significant financial flexibility during a critical transfer window.

And the club already appears to have ambitious plans for reinvestment.

Reports from Sky Sports suggest United have identified two major midfield targets as top priorities this summer: Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali and Serie A standout Ederson.

Club officials are believed to admire Tonali’s leadership, technical quality, and composure under pressure. Despite enduring a difficult period in English football following his suspension earlier in his Newcastle career, the Italian midfielder has rebuilt his reputation with a series of dominant performances this season.

Meanwhile, Ederson has emerged as one of Serie A’s most complete midfielders thanks to his physicality, intelligence, and versatility. United scouts have reportedly monitored him extensively throughout the campaign and view him as an ideal addition to Carrick’s evolving system.

The combined value of the two midfielders is believed to be around £110 million, but insiders suggest United are increasingly confident they can secure both deals.

Carrick is said to view midfield as the area most urgently requiring improvement after United struggled for consistency and control in big matches this season. Casemiro is expected to leave the club in the coming weeks, while uncertainty also surrounds the futures of Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay.

As a result, United’s recruitment team has accelerated negotiations in hopes of completing key transfers before pre-season begins.

Supporters are already growing excited about what a rebuilt midfield could look like next season. The prospect of Tonali’s creativity alongside Ederson’s energy has generated significant buzz online, with many fans believing the duo could transform the team’s style of play.

Still, questions remain over whether United can truly compete for major honours immediately after such a turbulent campaign.

The club continues to face pressure both financially and structurally, while rivals such as Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool remain significantly more stable.

Yet for the first time in months, there is at least a sense that United may finally be moving in the right direction.

Carrick’s calming influence has restored belief within the squad, several underperforming players have revived their careers, and transfer plans appear more focused than in previous years.

As the players prepare for their final game against Brighton, many inside Old Trafford understand that the summer ahead could define the club’s future for years to come.

Victories on the pitch may matter this weekend, but the real battle — rebuilding Manchester United into genuine contenders once again — is only just beginning.