Michael Carrick insists Manchester United could do "something really special" this season, and the Manchester Evening News has offered its predictions for the 2026/27 campaign, covering the Premier League, Champions League, and trophy prospects.
Players to watch
Tyrone Marshall picked Matheus Cunha as the player to watch, noting that "if this United squad are going to win the league, they all need to find another level to go to. Cunha might have it in him." Steven Railston chose Shea Lacey, saying "there has been a buzz about Lacey in youth circles since he was a boy, and he can announce himself to the rest of the world with more senior involvement." Ross Jackson selected Bryan Mbeumo, who "has looked sharp in United's friendlies" and "has excelled as a No.9."
Premier League finish and Champions League hopes
All three writers predicted a fourth-place finish for United. Marshall said "I wouldn't rule out a really successful season" but added that "the Champions League brings a new challenge." Railston noted that "each of those teams should be stronger in the new campaign," referring to Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham. Jackson said "I can't see United finishing higher than third" and predicted Chelsea would take third.
In the Champions League, Marshall predicted a quarter-final run, saying "they will get out of the league phase" and could reach the last eight. Railston said "it's practically impossible to exit the Champions League group stage after the competition's format was revamped" and predicted a Round of 16 exit. Jackson also saw a last-16 finish, noting that a place in the playoffs "is far more likely."
Trophy predictions and laughable forecasts
Marshall and Jackson predicted no trophy for United this season. Marshall said "the schedule might catch up with United," while Jackson said Carrick "is likely to rotate very heavily in the cup competitions." Railston predicted a League Cup final appearance, saying "I can see United making the League Cup final, which is traditionally the easier competition to win."
For laughable predictions, Marshall said "United will be in the title race for a long time" and predicted they would be top of the league after September 6. Railston said "Amad will be in contention to win the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award." Jackson predicted "United will finish at least 20 points ahead of Liverpool this season," adding that "those on the red half of Merseyside should be worried about the direction their team are heading."
