After what most Manchester United fans would describe as a disappointing draw away at Craven Cottage, and what in large appeared to be a return to old habits, the same habits which saw Manchester United finish their last Premier League campaign in a lowly 15th. We look ahead to what already feels like a pivotal week for Manchester United and their Portuguese manager.
What the weekend taught us.
After a positive feeling amongst many of Manchester United's fan base following the narrow defeat to Arsenal on the opening weekend of the season. Many believe that this weekend represented a return to that same United team from last season. After what was a promising opening to the game against Fulham which saw Cunha hit the post. The game slowly turned in favour of United's London counterparts. Culminating in a penalty from captain Fernandes which was lashed wildly over the bar, and a Smith-Rowe first touch of the ball which left a stranded Bayindir, and saw the home side equalise in the game, taking home a deserved share of the points.
United's lacking cutting edge was there for all to see, and the managerial decisions made by Ruben Amorim left many raising an eye brow (or two) as Sesko was once again introduced from the bench and Kobbie Mainoo was left on the side-line for the entirety of the fixture, whilst Ayden Heaven and Harry Maguire were thrown into the action late on, despite both being more defensively minded players with the game ending at 1-1.
So, what's next?
Due to United's disappointing league finish, United enter the EFL Cup at the second round stage this year, with what could be a tricky away fixture at League Two side Grimsby Town FC on Wednesday evening. The game has a "magic of the cup" feel to it, and could represent a banana skin for United which could heap more pressure on the manager.
Amorim himself will also have to make some big decisions as to whether start with a strong team to try to play his Manchester United team into form, or to use the game as an opportunity to take a look at some of the players yet to feature in United's current campaign. Whatever Amorim decides; there will be a clamour from the United faithful to put on a performance befitting of Manchester United's history and heritage with a hope of goals and free flowing football; a trend many would argue, has been elusive since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.
Saturday Lunchtime
Whatever happens in the EFL cup, one thing is certain. A return to Old Trafford at 3PM on Saturday for Premier League action. Similarly to the midweek fixture, the home fans will once again expect United to put on a show against their newly promoted rivals who currently sit above Manchester United in the league table.
Burnley who obtained their first three points of the season at the weekend following their positive result against another one of the promoted sides will also present a test to Amorim's side. Burnley who are known for their grit, determination and defensive organisation won't be an easy task for Amorim's reds. But with the newly formed front line bought over the summer at a cost close to £200m, Old Trafford will expect goals and more importantly three points to get their league campaign up and running ahead of a trickier run of league fixtures to come.
Transfer Window Closing
With the summer transfer window closing at 7PM on Monday evening, United fans will be crossing their fingers that some more business can be expected ahead of that deadline. With outgoings of the likes of Antony, Sancho and Malacia expected. Most fans will be more keen on who Amorim can bring through the doors at Carrington.
Hopes of a new goal keeper and defensively minded midfielder will no doubt be top on many reds Wishlist's. With Belgium shot stopper Senne Lammens being heavily rumoured to be inbound to provide competition to both Onana and Bayindir.
A midfielder will also be a position to monitor in the final few days of the window to see if they can indeed finance a deal for Brighton's Baleba; who they have already been quoted a price north of £100m, or find a cheaper alternative who can make Manchester United's midfield tick and unlock the potential of that new frontline. All eyes on Amorim and the board in what is certain to be a very important week in M16, and one that could shape United's season for good or bad.
