Manchester United have endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 season, winning just two of their opening seven games and exiting the Carabao Cup early. However, the club has been spared intense scrutiny by the news that Manchester City have been found guilty of nearly all charges brought against them by the Premier League.
Pressure Mounts at Old Trafford
Optimism filled the air at Old Trafford ahead of the new campaign, but that quickly disappeared once competitive football began. Matheus Cunha's late goal against Fulham was just enough to prevent discourse over Michael Carrick's future during the international break, yet all is not well at the club.
United's potential star of the future is also set to leave, adding to the challenges facing the side. The difficult start looked even worse until Manchester City demonstrated how much worse things could be.
City's Woes Provide Relief
Once the bombshell news broke that City had been found guilty of nearly all charges brought against them by the Premier League, talk of whether Carrick is the right man for United faded from football fans' minds. United are not used to being overshadowed by their local rivals in the news cycle, but they will be delighted to sit in the background and watch on in this instance.
The relief from City's troubles will only last for so long, and United need to get their house in order. A defeat against Tottenham on Saturday would instantly turn the spotlight back on Carrick.
Saturday's Test Against Spurs
Whether Saturday's game is a must-win for United remains unclear, as it seems too early to make judgements. However, Tottenham have been dreadful this season, and a home defeat to them would not be a good look for United at all.
