MANCHESTER UNITED SINK TO WORST LEAGUE START IN 33 YEARS

By: Gyang Dakwo

Manchester United have taken only four points from their first four Premier League games, their poorest beginning to a season in 33 years. A 3-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad marked the latest setback.

City took control after Phil Foden’s first goal, before Erling Haaland scored twice in the second half. United gave away chances, missed their own, and could not handle the pressure.

Since Ruben Amorim became manager in November 2024, United have won 6 of 25 league matches, drawn 6, and lost 13. This win rate of about 24 percent is the lowest for any United manager since the Second World War.

In those 25 games, United have conceded 41 goals, an average of 1.6 per match, and kept only four clean sheets. They have failed to score in 10 games, with a total of 30 goals and a conversion rate of about 8.7 percent from their attempts.

Against City, United had more of the ball, with 55 percent possession compared to 45 for City. But they created fewer threats. Haaland extended his scoring run with two goals, while City’s new goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, stopped United from scoring with key saves.

Amorim has stood by his 3-4-3 system, saying he will change it only if he chooses to. He admitted that results have been poor, goals are scarce, mistakes are being punished, and the dressing room morale is low.

United are now 14th in the table. Their attack is struggling to convert chances, their defence concedes often, and their overall rhythm is weak.

The squad still has players of quality, and a run of wins could improve confidence. However, stronger defending, more precise finishing, and greater consistency will be needed to change the course.