Manchester United, according to Erik ten Hag, are not yet title contenders. We’ll find out soon whether he’s correct or not. United have been on a roll not only since club football resumed, but for several months. They have shown little ring rust since the World Cup break, winning all four matches without conceding a goal.
Manchester United’s Premier League title prospects will be revealed soon
It looks even better in light of the fact that many of the other top sides have struggled with consistency. The results have favored United. They are now comfortably in the top four for the first time since March, five points ahead of Tottenham. In fact, they are only one point behind Manchester City, who have a game in hand.
Their form goes back even further, to their last meeting with their city rivals. United were humbled once more by the Blues, who defeated them 6-3. Despite this, United has won 13 of their last 16 games. The lone defeat came against Aston Villa, with two draws against Chelsea and second-placed Newcastle. Unsurprisingly, United’s consistent form and rivals’ stumbles have seen them emerge as unlikely title contenders. Ten Hag has moved quickly to quell the flames of this suggestion.
It is prudent to avoid early expectations. Given United’s worst-ever Premier League finish last season and the numerous on- and off-field improvements required, simply qualifying for the Champions League would be considered a success. Ten Hag has always stated that trophies determine success.
Of course, United is years behind City and Arsenal in their rebuilding efforts. A massive January will reveal whether or not United can compete. United’s title credentials will be put to the test in the final two Premier League games of a month that could be dominated by the League Cup.
On January 14, City will travel to Old Trafford. United’s comeback began with a defeat to the Blues, so avenging that defeat will demonstrate their progress. Pep Guardiola’s team isn’t any better than it was in October. Arsenal is coming up next week. United were the only team to defeat Arsenal this season.
