At the midpoint of the 2024/25 Premier League season, Manchester United is positioned 13th in the standings. Their 2-0 loss to Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Monday night leaves them 13 points away from the desirable Champions League qualification spots and only seven points above the relegation zone. While it may seem unlikely, United’s current form indicates that relegation to the Championship is a genuine possibility. Ultimately, the standings don’t deceive. United has lost their last four games in all competitions and hasn’t scored in their last three league matches. Sunday’s visit to Anfield to take on Liverpool comes at an unfortunate moment. Just a week after playing against Arne Slot’s team, United will head to the Emirates Stadium for an FA Cup third round match against Arsenal. The third round of the FA Cup is frequently filled with unexpected results, and it would be quite surprising if United were to advance past the initial stage while defending their title. The chance of slipping closer to the relegation zone this weekend and being eliminated from the FA Cup the next Sunday could add significant pressure to their Europa League efforts. United will continue their European journey later this month, taking on Rangers and FCSB in their last two league phase matches. Currently in seventh place, United is hopeful about securing one of the eight spots for automatic qualification to the last-16. Teams that place between ninth and 24th will need to participate in a play-off round, which will feature a two-legged match in February. United remains undefeated in the Europa League this season, with three wins and three draws in their first six games. Captain Bruno Fernandes noted that winning the competition is “probably the biggest target” for United this season, especially after their 3-2 victory against Bodo/Glimt in November. “The Europa League is a target for us,” he stated. “It’s likely our biggest goal for the season, as winning a trophy in a European competition is very significant. Bruno Fernandes aims for Manchester United to go far in Europe this season.” (Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United through Getty Images.)
