Marvel Studios may still be wrapping up its Multiverse Saga, but behind the scenes, the studio is reportedly laying the foundation for what comes next. According to industry insider Alex Perez, Marvel has already identified a slate of high priority projects that will shape the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Avengers: Secret Wars. While none of these plans have been officially confirmed by Marvel Studios, the reported roadmap offers an exciting glimpse into the studio’s long-term vision.
One of the biggest priorities is Spider-Man 5, which is reportedly set to be directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, best known for directing Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Cretton is also expected to return for Shang-Chi 2, making him one of Marvel’s key creative figures moving forward. With Tom Holland’s Spider-Man remaining one of the MCU’s biggest box-office draws, another sequel has long been considered inevitable.
Marvel is also reportedly moving ahead with a Thunderbolts sequel. Although the first film delivered only moderate box-office results, it earned strong reviews from both critics and audiences while finding new life on streaming platforms. That positive reception appears to have convinced the studio that the antihero team still has plenty of storytelling potential.
Another major franchise staying in Marvel’s spotlight is Black Panther. Reports suggest that Black Panther 3 is firmly on the studio’s priority list, continuing the legacy of Wakanda following the emotional success of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Perhaps the most significant long-term project is the long-awaited X-Men reboot. According to Perez, Marvel considers the mutant franchise a cornerstone of its next saga, with Jake Schreier, director of Thunderbolts, reportedly being eyed to helm the film.
Marvel is also said to be expanding its supernatural corner. Despite years of production delays and script rewrites, Blade, starring Mahershala Ali, remains part of the studio’s plans. Alongside it, the long-rumored Midnight Sons project is reportedly still in development as Marvel explores darker, horror-inspired storytelling. Meanwhile, another Avengers film is believed to be in early development beyond Secret Wars, with speculation continuing that the Russo Brothers could return for another chapter in the franchise.
One notable project reportedly taking a back seat is Doctor Strange 3. According to the leaks, Benedict Cumberbatch’s next solo outing has been temporarily deprioritized as Marvel focuses on building its next generation of heroes and teams.
For now, fans should treat these reports as rumors until Marvel Studios makes official announcements. Still, if the leaks prove accurate, the MCU’s future looks set to blend familiar heroes, fresh teams, and bold new genres in the years following Secret Wars.