Manchester United, humorously referred to as “the Salford lot,” have endured their most challenging start to a league season since 1989-90. The campaign began with a lackluster 1-0 home victory over Fulham, but any optimism quickly dissipated as the team faced two consecutive defeats on the road, falling 2-1 to Brighton and suffering a 3-0 loss to Liverpool. These results hinted at deeper issues within the squad, which struggled to find consistency and momentum early in the season.
The team’s fortunes briefly improved with a 3-0 victory against Southampton, a result that may become more common for clubs visiting St. Mary’s this season. However, this reprieve was short-lived, as United subsequently went three matches without a win. A pair of goalless draws against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa were split by a dismal 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham, highlighting their difficulties in both defense and attack. The inconsistency left United adrift in mid-table, occupying 12th place with just 11 points from eight matches.
A controversial 2-1 win over Brentford offered some relief, though the manner of the victory raised eyebrows. An official’s decision to enforce the rules strictly at Old Trafford—insisting that a bloodied defender be sent off for medical treatment—caused uproar among the home supporters, who are perhaps more accustomed to leniency from match officials. The suggestion that United’s fanbase was offended by proper rule enforcement hinted at the broader perception of favoritism at Old Trafford, an attitude the team may need to adjust as the season unfolds.
On the transfer front, United made seven new signings in an effort to bolster the squad, but the new arrivals have yet to make a significant impact. The first of these was Dutch striker Joshua Zirkee, who arrived from Bologna for £36.5m. With a record of 13 goals in 53 Serie A appearances, Zirkee’s signing did not promise fireworks, and aside from scoring the winner on the opening day against Fulham, his contribution has been minimal. Another high-profile signing was young defender Leny Yoro, who cost the club £52m. Although he was named Young Player of the Year at Lille, his lack of senior international experience and an early ankle injury have so far prevented him from making his debut.
United also secured the services of two defenders from Bayern Munich, Matthijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui. De Ligt, a well-known Dutch international with 48 caps, came with a £38m price tag but has already had to deal with an injury that saw him receive treatment for a head injury. Meanwhile, Mazraoui’s fee was undisclosed but speculated to be around £12m. His health has been a topic of concern, given that he recently underwent a minor procedure for heart palpitations, raising questions about his long-term fitness despite assurances that he is medically cleared to play.
The club’s other acquisitions included Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who was signed from PSG for £42m. Ugarte had struggled for game time under coach Luis Enrique, whose tactical preferences at the French club did not suit the player’s style.
His transfer was seen as a move to revitalize his career. Additionally, United brought in Kone, an 18-year-old Malian U17 international, for £1m. He is not expected to make an immediate impact on the first team, and his transfer suggests the club is investing in future talent. Alongside these transfer activities, injuries have compounded United’s challenges, with Main out due to a thigh problem and Harry Maguire sidelined with a calf injury, further hampering their defensive options.
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