Former Manchester United striker Alan Smith believes the Red Devils can challenge for this season's Premier League title.
United had a successful first season under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag with the team winning the Carabao Cup and claiming a spot in the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League.
Now with a number of new signings including Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojland, many are expecting United to push on and perhaps challenge for more major honours this upcoming season.
Smith is one of those who believes the squad can do exactly that and he explained why in an interview with Gambling Zone.
"I’m pretty sure Ten Hag will deploy the 4-2-3-1 that he used last season. Bruno gives you so much with his passing range and his goals. Bringing Casemiro in was a masterstroke to release Bruno more, and we saw the rewards of that," Smith said.
"I thought they looked really good in pre-season, especially the interplay. They look like they have so much athleticism going forward, they look exceptional going forward with so much pace and power.
"But the more you throw players forward the more you leave yourself vulnerable at the back, especially if your full-backs are going forward. He will be trying to get that balance.
"Last year, the defensive record was good. Combining that will give him a winning formula to go as close as possible this year. Internally there will be hope they can push all the way and I’m sure they will do more business before the window closes.
"I feel last season Man Utd were not really spoken about as title contenders, but this year I think they will go close."