The sharp decline of Manchester United under Michael Carrick's management has exposed serious issues with the productivity of key players. Having led the club to a third-place finish and a Champions League spot, Carrick was handed a full-time contract. However, the new season has only yielded two wins from eleven matches, a seven-match winless streak, and a heavy 4-1 defeat to Como.
Currently sitting in 13th place in the Premier League, the Reds have amassed just seven points from seven games. Below are five players whose performances this season have fallen short of expectations and contributed to the pressure surrounding the manager.
1. Bruno Fernandes
The Portuguese midfielder remains captain and the team's main creative force, but his impact on the field has noticeably waned compared to last season. Bruno has struggled to be effective in the final third, and after the humbling defeat against Como, he openly criticised the tactical plan and a lack of pressing from the coaching staff.
2. Diogo Dalot
Regularly starting matches, the Portuguese defender had a nightmare game in Italy, where United's defensive flanks were consistently exploited. With limited options at left-back, Dalot's positioning and tracking back often left the team vulnerable.
3. Marcus Rashford
After returning from loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona, the Englishman has yet to live up to the faith shown in him by his manager. His contribution to the attack has been lacklustre, and consistency on the flanks has been sorely missed.
4. Matheus Cunha
The forward had previously shown promise in front of goal, but he has lost his rhythm at the start of the new season. As a result, United's attack has become more reliant on chaotic play rather than the creation of clear-cut goalscoring opportunities.
5. Benjamin Sesko
The striker had been a regular goalscorer since his arrival, but an injury has deprived the team of one of its few reliable finishers. The remaining attacking players have struggled to compensate for his absence.
These five players vividly demonstrate the drop in effectiveness, defensive shortcomings, and squad challenges facing United ahead of their crucial match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
