Manchester United entered the 2026/27 season with ambitions of turning the page on a difficult period, placing their hopes in Michael Carrick as the man to restore order to Old Trafford. The decision to appoint the former midfielder on a permanent basis was meant to bring stability, a clear tactical identity, and a fresh sense of purpose.

Instead, the early signs have been deeply concerning. Defeats have mounted at an alarming rate, and each successive performance has cast fresh doubt on the squad's discipline, collective mentality, and capacity to compete at the level expected of a club of Manchester United's stature.

Questions of organization and consistency

Carrick's side have looked disjointed in key moments, with opponents regularly exposing structural weaknesses that suggest deeper problems than a simple run of bad form. Observers have pointed to a lack of cohesion both in and out of possession — issues that a permanent appointment was supposed to address.

The mood around the club has shifted noticeably. Where there was cautious optimism ahead of the new campaign, there is now mounting pressure on Carrick to demonstrate that his vision for the club can be translated into results on the pitch.

For a squad that has endured turbulence across recent seasons, the challenge is as much psychological as it is tactical. Whether Carrick can steady the ship — and silence the growing voices of concern — remains the defining question of Manchester United's season so far.