Despite the huge promise building at Old Trafford in recent months, it’s safe to say Manchester United fans have suffered a reality check in the Premier League.

The Red Devils have only won one of their first five encounters in the Premier League, subsequently seeing the club occupy a place in the bottom half of the table.

As a result, Michael Carrick has become a man under pressure, and it’s hard to argue with such a fact given the stats his side have produced over recent months.

The stats behind Man Utd’s struggles in 2026/27

Big-money was spent at Old Trafford over the summer to try and help Carrick be a success this campaign, but it’s safe to say the additions have so far been unsuccessful.

Throughout the first five games of the new campaign, the Red Devils have only averaged 13 tackles made per 90 - with such a figure the fourth-lowest in the division.

Such numbers showcase the new midfield additions have been unable to break up the play at the heart of the side and have often allowed the opposition to walk through the middle of the park.

At the other end of the pitch, the attacking department have been just as disappointing, as seen by their tally of 182 touches in the opposition box this term.

Whilst such a figure is the highest in the division, their tally of just eight goals this term showcases the struggles in front of goal and their inability to take advantage of the opportunities.

Carrick’s men have also registered the second highest shot on target per 90 rate this campaign, which further demonstrates their lack of clinical edge in the final third.

How Carrick has put himself in danger of the sack at United

United’s inability to threaten in attacking areas has been just one area in which the side have struggled this campaign, but the manager certainly hasn’t covered himself in glory.

His first team selections have constantly been called into question over recent weeks, with his decisions undoubtedly costing the Red Devils in key encounters.

He’s started Marcus Rashford in four of the five Premier League games this campaign, with such a call seeing a portion of the fanbase voice their frustrations.

The Englishman has failed to register a single goal or assist in the Premier League throughout 2026/27 and has contributed to the recent struggles within attacking areas.

At the other end of the field, the manager has also stood by full-back Diogo Dalot to provide the goods, another call which has seen the supporters question his selections.

Why Carrick’s potential replacement could get Rashford firing

As a result of the recent struggles in Manchester, INEOS have been working behind the scenes to draw up a list of possible replacements in the near future.

Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler has been touted as one possible replacement after catching the eye during his tenure in charge at the AMEX Stadium.

However, he’s not the only name currently on the hierarchy’s radar, with former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe another under serious consideration at present.

It’s been reported by Football Insider that the hierarchy will consider a move for the Englishman should Carrick be handed his marching orders in the near future.

The report states his experience in the Premier League and Champions League is seen as vital for the Red Devils, who have been long-term admirers of the 48-year-old.

He may not be many of the supporters' first choice to replace Carrick at the helm, but his experience could prove to be vital for current first-team member Rashford.

During his time in charge of Newcastle, Howe was able to transform Anthony Gordon from a struggling Premier League attacker to one of the very best in the division.

His time working with the former Everton man saw him net 38 times for the Magpies, whilst ending the previous campaign as the club’s top scorer across all competitions.

10 of his 17 goals last term came in the Champions League, which further demonstrates the manager’s ability to get the best out of players in Europe’s biggest competition.

Such experience could see Rashford be the next player to benefit from his compatriot’s quality and reach the heights he set for himself back in 2022/23.

His recent struggles at United have led to fans questioning his long-term future at the club, but Howe could well put an end to such doubts if he gets the opportunity to work with the winger.

Howe, who’s been dubbed “the next England manager” by Jamie Carragher, will relish the opportunity to get his career back on track - especially at a club such as United.

The pair will no doubt have a point to prove during the remainder of the 2026/27 season after their recent struggles, with the pair able to help fire the Red Devils to needed success in the future years.