The situation at Manchester United is tense. Ruben Amorim, the coach, although he affirms his continuity, cannot guarantee his permanence after the international break. An agonizing victory against Burnley, achieved with a penalty in the 97th minute, has been seen as a possible turning point, amidst a gloomy atmosphere.
The defeat in the League Cup against Grimsby Town and the loss to Arsenal in the first matchday of the Premier League have fueled criticism. Added to this is the lack of playing time for Benjamin Sesko, a star signing of 76.5 million euros.
Despite everything, United is not the worst team in the city in the Premier League table. With four points in three games, they surpass a Manchester City that has lost two of its three matches.
The reigning champion, City, has suffered two defeats, something unusual in its history. Rodri, the Ballon d’Or winner, has returned from an injury, but has stated that he cannot guarantee constant victories for the team.
The next Manchester derby is shaping up to be a crucial match, at a time of poor form for both teams since City’s acquisition in 2008.
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For City, the arrival of the United Arab Emirates meant a meteoric rise. After a period of stagnation, the arrival of Pep Guardiola marked a before and after, with three consecutive titles between 2022 and 2024.
However, the average points have decreased, reaching their lowest point since Guardiola’s arrival.Nedum Onuoha analyzes the importance of winning the Manchester derby after a disappointing start for Manchester City.At United, the points average is the lowest since 2008, and since the beginning of the Premier League. After the golden era of Sir Alex Ferguson, performance has declined, with coaching changes that have not achieved consistent improvement.
United, under Amorim’s management, has not shown signs of improvement.
The situation at United is similar to that of the Dallas Cowboys in American football, where mediocrity is perceived as failure. If United doesn’t compete for the Premier League and the Champions League, something is wrong, and that has been the case for more than a decade.Janusz Michallik questions Ruben Amorim’s management at Manchester United after their victory over Burnley.However, United’s situation might not be as dire as it seems. Despite having generated many goal opportunities, the team has not capitalized on its chances, which could be a matter of luck that will even out over time.
Despite not being title contenders, United’s attack seems better than last season.
In City, the defensive problems of last season persist. They have conceded more goals and touches in their own area than in previous seasons. The new additions have not solved the weakness in midfield.
The City could recover, but bookmakers and projection systems place their title chances in a distant third place.
United, for its part, has increased its projected points, which suggests that, despite the criticisms, the situation might not be as alarming as perceived.
