Manchester United cannot afford another prolonged slump in 2026/27. Their 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como extended their winless run to seven matches, leaving Michael Carrick under growing pressure. United have managed just two victories in 11 games across all competitions, while criticism of their tactical approach has raised questions about dressing-room unity.
The problems run deeper than one result. United need immediate improvements on the pitch, but the hierarchy must decide whether Carrick can deliver them and ensure the recruitment team supports a clear footballing plan.
Manchester United Changes: 3 Fixes To Save Their Season
1. Establish a clear tactical identity
United need consistent principles for pressing, possession and defensive transitions. Their recent performances have exposed gaps between midfield and defence, allowing opponents to attack space before the back line can recover.
Carrick should demand coordinated pressing rather than individual players chasing the ball. When United lose possession, nearby midfielders must protect the centre before the full-backs commit forward. That adjustment could reduce counter-attacks without sacrificing their attacking threat.
2. Make a firm decision on Carrick
Carrick guided United to third place last season, yet the current run has damaged confidence in his methods. The Como defeat and seven-game winless streak leave the club facing a serious decision.
INEOS and the football department must assess his tactical choices, dressing-room relationships and ability to improve results. If Carrick cannot correct the team’s defensive problems, United must identify a suitable successor before making a change. Another appointment without agreement between the manager and recruitment staff would repeat the instability that has held United back.
3. Rebuild the midfield balance
The absences of Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte have exposed United’s lack of reliable midfield cover. Casemiro has carried a heavier defensive burden, while the team has struggled to protect its centre-backs when opponents break forward.
United should prioritise a mobile midfielder who can recover possession, resist pressure and move the ball forward. Recruitment must match the squad’s needs, not simply chase famous names or expensive deals. The club should assess wages, transfer costs and resale value together, ensuring each signing addresses a clear weakness rather than adding another costly player without a defined role.
Can Manchester United rescue their season without another costly reset?
United should prioritise tactical stability first, because even new signings will struggle if the team cannot defend transitions or maintain its shape. Carrick must show that he can correct those problems, while the hierarchy must decide whether he deserves time to implement the changes. Spending heavily without fixing those weaknesses would waste another window, while dismissing him without a shared football plan would leave the same problems for his successor.
