Overview
- Manchester United have won two of their first seven matches in 2026–27 and sit well behind the league leaders, a poor start that has sharpened questions about performance and results.
- Critics point to specific setbacks — the opening defeat to Hull City, a Carabao Cup collapse after leading Brighton, and a late Fulham equaliser — as moments that increased pressure on Carrick.
- Analysts and club writers identify three fixable problems: low running and work-rate figures, a midfield trio that struggles in physical contests, and an attack lacking cohesion without a fit natural striker.
- Benjamin Sesko is undergoing further scans on a shin problem and could miss more time, leaving limited natural striking options and forcing tactical reshuffles from Carrick.
- Supporter views are split between urgent calls for change and appeals for patience, with the international break providing time to regroup before a congested set of fixtures that will test whether Carrick can reverse the slide.