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Manchester United top the unwanted Premier League chart for attacks against low defensive blocks (27%) as opponents have figured out Michael Carrick's tactics.

Manchester United are looking to end a disappointing run in the Premier League ahead of the crucial Roses derby against Leeds United, taking place on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Michael Carrick's team have failed to win in their last five matches, struggling to score more than one goal per game.

It appears opponents have fully deciphered the attacking style of the Mancunians. According to data from Opta Analyst, Manchester United have faced the highest percentage of defensive resistance from teams employing a low block, with 27% of their attacking build-up time thwarted by such tactics — the worst figure amongst all Premier League clubs.

Key numbers and issues:

  • 27% of matches against a low block: Opponents are deliberately ceding possession and sitting deep, aware of Carrick's side's struggles to break down compact defensive setups.
  • 19% against a high block: This is the second-worst figure in the league, with teams rarely risking a high press against United, opting instead for a reliable defensive stance.
  • Searching for solutions: Carrick and his coaching staff urgently need to devise new, varied, and creative attacking strategies to overcome the dense defences they will face in forthcoming matches.