Manchester United currently sits 13th in the Premier League, having secured only four points from their first four matches. This includes a 2-0 loss to Hull, a 5-2 victory over Ipswich, a 2-2 draw at Everton, and a 1-0 defeat against Manchester City on Sunday. The defeat to City has some context, as it came just three days after United's Champions League win against Sabah, while Enzo Maresca’s City squad had 48 hours more rest after their win against Porto.
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As United prepares to host Brighton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday and visits Fulham in the league on Sunday, questions arise about the team's current performance. Michael Carrick believes that the recent VAR mishap during the City match could motivate his players against Brighton. The VAR had ruled that Enzo Fernández wasn’t interfering in play during the build-up to Erling Haaland’s decisive goal, a decision later admitted to be incorrect by Pro Ref, which has since reassigned the VAR official.
Addressing his team’s mindset, Carrick noted that setbacks can provide an edge for players moving forward, stating, "The players have got an edge. They’ve shown that to me since I’ve been here." Nevertheless, he acknowledged the need for improvement: "We have won a lot of games, and we need to continue to do that. I understand it's a new season, and the points tally right now is not what we want it to be."
Comparisons have been made between Carrick’s current tenure and that of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, the latter having initially enjoyed success before facing challenges. Carrick had previously revitalized the team as an interim coach but has seen declining results since his official appointment.
During the match against City, United failed to capitalize on their one-man advantage after Phil Foden's red card. The midfield pairing of Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans struggled to control the game, resulting in a lack of scoring opportunities for forwards Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Marcus Rashford. This marked the first time in Carrick’s 12 home Premier League games that United recorded less than 1.0 expected goals (0.95).
United's decision-making in the summer transfer window also raises concerns, particularly regarding a left-back. Despite pursuing several players for this position, the club signed only midfielders, leaving them vulnerable on the left flank. Luke Shaw’s ongoing injury complications have forced Carrick to use Patrick Dorgu as a makeshift solution, who struggled against City.
United's investments in new players have also come under scrutiny. The signings of Santos, Tielemans, and Carlos Baleba for a combined £148 million have yet to yield significant returns, with Santos making just one start and Tielemans yet to leave a mark on the team. Baleba remains sidelined due to injury.
As United seeks to turn their season around, there are calls for Benjamin Sesko, who has shown promise with recent performances, to be given more playing time. Sesko has scored in both the Champions League and against Everton, highlighting the urgency for productive contributions from the squad as the season progresses.