Walking on the pitch? Data expose how Manchester United’s lack of pressing could be sabotaging their season
By Luke Oluoch, September 18, 2026There is little doubt that United’s start to the season has been concerning and equally shocking, leaving fans and pundits alike questioning how a promising resurgence has unravelled so quickly.
Manchester United’s 2025 season ended on a high with a run of successive wins marking a new era of optimism and belief in the return of the former giants at Old Trafford, which included impressive wins against Manchester City and a memorable victory over Arsenal.
They not only finished second but also qualified for the Champions League, a run that left many wondering what if Michael Carrick had started the season at the helm.
The very comments that have seen the club bear the brunt of the worst football trolls after their shocking turnaround.
However, the evolving nature of the game has provided a harsh reality check, with United managing only one win in four league matches and sitting down the table since Michael Carrick returned to the club in January.
Much of the blame for United’s poor start has been pinned on injuries, with the left-back position missing Luke Shaw, Benjamin Šeško only returning recently, and new signing Carlos Baleba still missing in action.
Additionally, defensive frailties have cropped up this season, with Carrick’s side conceding two goals in three of their four Premier League games.
Jogging and low sprints
However, beyond the injuries and what many believe could be a lack of luck in the opening games, a shocking report by Sky Sports has explained what could be the basis for their struggles.
According to the stats, United are dismal, ranking either bottom or second from bottom in sprints and high-speed runs. Data shows that these facets heavily influence match intensity, as it appears the team’s output is not optimal enough for the standards required to press, recover, and defend transitions. The club only ranked better in distance covered, sitting 14th best among the teams.
This comes as Michael Carrick faces a decisive end to September, with Fulham next on their trail. The Red Devils travel to face the West Londoners on Sunday, September 20, 2026, needing nothing less than a win to steer their fortunes around.
A victory could kick-start their campaign once more, especially following the recent rollercoaster that saw a controversial Manchester Derby success over Manchester City, immediately followed by a shocking collapse at Old Trafford that bundled them out of the Carabao Cup after a 2-3 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Already, there is mounting talk over whether Carrick will remain the man to lead United out of the hole if he fails to win his next game.