Bruno Fernandes has candidly acknowledged that Manchester United are not in a position to compete for the Premier League title. Speaking after United’s disheartening 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, Fernandes admitted that the team, whose last title win came over 11 years ago, is currently focused on securing a top-four finish rather than challenging for the trophy.
Despite spending £180 million on five new signings during the summer transfer window, United’s early season form has been underwhelming. With just three points from their opening three games, a similar start to Erik ten Hag’s debut season, the pressure is mounting on the Dutch manager. The team’s inconsistent performances have reignited concerns about a lack of a clear playing style under ten Hag, particularly in midfield, where last season’s problems have resurfaced.
Adding to the midfield dilemma, the final week of the transfer window saw departures of Scott McTominay and Hannibal Mejbri, leaving United short in options. Christian Eriksen, who had been linked with a move back to Ajax, ultimately stayed at Old Trafford as the Dutch transfer window closed. To address the midfield woes, United signed Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain for £42.3 million on deadline day, though he was unavailable for the Liverpool match. After the game, Ugarte heard his captain’s stark assessment of the team’s situation.
“Yes, I am perfectly aware that this Manchester United is not ready to win the Premier League,” Fernandes said in an interview with DAZN Portugal. “We are, indeed, fighting for the title with the concrete and real objective of trying to finish in the top four, in the places that give access to the Champions League. But there is still a lot to improve for the greater objective, and for my dream, which is to one day win this championship.”
Finishing 31 points behind champions Manchester City last season, United were never realistically considered title contenders this term. Now, Fernandes and his teammates face a tough battle even to secure a top-four finish, with City, Arsenal, and Liverpool all expected to occupy three of the Champions League spots. This leaves United in a fierce competition for the fourth and final spot, though fifth place may also grant Champions League qualification under UEFA’s new league co-efficient rules.
As the team looks ahead to two consecutive away Premier League games against Southampton and Crystal Palace following the international break, the pressure is on to turn their form around. Between those league fixtures, United will also face Barnsley in a League Cup tie at Old Trafford, offering a potential morale boost.
Erik ten Hag, now two years into his tenure, will need to make significant tactical adjustments and hope Ugarte’s arrival stabilizes the midfield. The club’s long-term objective remains clear, but for now, the top priority is securing a Champions League spot and rebuilding United into a team capable of contending for titles once again.