Thierry Henry has drawn a parallel between Manchester United's current struggles and Arsenal's difficult transition following Arsene Wenger's departure. The comparison comes as the Red Devils sit 17th in the Premier League after their worst start in 40 years.
Before facing Roma in the Champions League, United were on a nine-game winless run that left Michael Carrick close to losing his job. The team had not won since late August, managing just two league victories all season, against Ipswich Town and Sabah.
Henry's comparison to Arsenal's rebuild
Speaking on CBS, Henry recalled Arsenal's own turbulent period under Wenger's successors, Unai Emery and Mikel Arteta. He noted the atmosphere at the club was "a tiny bit toxic" during those years.
"The fans were going amongst each other, asking who the coach should be, who should come and go, having a go at the owners. It's a bit like what's happening with United now," Henry said.
Questioning coaching changes
Henry questioned whether United's various managers were given enough time to succeed. "Surely, along the way, all the coaches they've had could have been the answer? Did they give enough time to that one, you don't know who it could have been?" he asked.
He pointed to Arteta as an example of patience paying off. "Arteta at times didn't have great runs in the league; didn't finish where Arsenal are supposed to finish. They kept him. Now everyone is saying he's a great coach," Henry added.
Carrick's position after Roma win
Carrick oversaw a 3-2 comeback victory against Roma at Old Trafford on Tuesday, after falling 2-0 down within 18 minutes. The win gives the under-fire boss more time as United prepare to face Aston Villa at home this weekend.
Carrick's position was set to be reassessed by the club's hierarchy over the November international break, and it remains to be seen what effect this win will have on his future.
