For Michael Carrick, the upcoming international holiday may not bring much time to rest.
The matches are temporarily suspended, but after Manchester United's 1-1 draw against Fulham, the attention and pressure on Carrick have not decreased. The next three weeks could become a challenging period for the Man United coach.
Things could even get worse. Matheus Cunha's equalizer in the 89th minute helped Man United avoid defeat at Craven Cottage and somewhat reduce pressure on Carrick.
After two consecutive home defeats against Manchester City and Brighton, another defeat may force Man United's board of directors to consider many issues during the time players return to work with the national team.
One point against Fulham at least helps the "Red Devils" avoid falling deeper into crisis, although this result is not something to celebrate. With 5 points after 5 matches, Man United had the worst start in the Premier League in more than a decade, although the early season schedule is considered relatively favorable.
Things are not very ideal. I know we can do better and need to improve in some aspects. But I am not discouraged or disappointed, because I think the team is still showing some positive signs" - Carrick said.
Carrick tried to look at the bright spots, but Man United's performance still left many questions. Gary Neville, Carrick's former teammate at Old Trafford, even said that the first 15 minutes of the second half were one of the worst performances he had ever witnessed from Man United.
Neville's criticism stemmed from the "Red Devils"' goal conceded. Kobbie Mainoo let Calvin Bassey read the pass in midfield. The Fulham defender then passed Matheus Cunha before entering the penalty area and launching a shot towards Senne Lammens.
Lammens used his foot to block the ball, but this handling accidentally caused the ball to bounce on Lisandro Martinez and go straight into the net. That is a situation that shows that Man United is lacking decisiveness at important moments.
Fitness is also a problem raised. After 90 minutes, Fulham players moved more than Man United by about 6km. Some times showed that the home team was faster, stronger and more determined in the dispute.
Matheus Cunha also admitted that Fulham played more actively at the beginning of the second half. However, Carrick does not think fitness is the main reason: "I don't see that. I am quite satisfied with the way we finished the match. The team played better at the end of the match and continued to put pressure. I don't think that's the problem".
What Man United fans are waiting for at this time is stability, instead of an escape in the final minutes. After the international holiday, the Old Trafford team will successively meet Tottenham, Atletico Madrid, Leeds and Como. 3 out of 4 of these matches will take place away from home, with a dense schedule in October.
In general, after the first rounds, Man United still has many questions to answer.
