United is back, United is back" is the slogan that sounded at Old Trafford. However, instead of coming from the home fans, that shouting came from Leeds United fans, who joyfully witnessed the team's first victory at this stadium since 1981.
Manchester United has returned? The answer is no. The 1-2 defeat to Daniel Farke's team is a clear reminder that optimism surrounding the team is still very fragile.
The "Red Devils"' form has shown signs of improvement under interim coach Michael Carrick, and that may be enough for them to aim for a UEFA Champions League spot next season. However, all expectations of competing for the championship were dashed by Leeds with an overwhelming performance in the first half.
The away team, despite facing the risk of relegation and not scoring in the Premier League since February, could have taken a bigger lead in the first 45 minutes. Farke had reason to be happy when Noah Okafor scored a double, although the gap could have been even bigger.
After 24 days of not playing since the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on March 20, Man United entered the game with a lackluster image. The red-shirted players were overwhelmed on the entire front, passing inaccurately and lacking cohesion.
This performance is completely opposite to the sharpness and speed once shown against Manchester City and Arsenal in the early stages under Carrick's reign.
The turning point continued to come at the beginning of the second half when Lisandro Martinez was sent off. After consulting VAR from referee John Brooks, referee Paul Tierney determined that the Argentine defender had the act of pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin's hair and showed a direct red card. This decision could cause Martinez to be suspended from important matches against Chelsea, Brentford and Liverpool.
Carrick after the match called this a shocking decision, but he can still be somewhat satisfied with the reaction of his players.
In a situation where there were only 10 players left and being led 0-2, Man United played more brightly. Casemiro narrowed the score to 1-2, while Benjamin Sesko - who came on as a substitute for Bryan Mbeumo - almost scored with a header that was excellently blocked by Karl Darlow. Not long after, another header from Casemiro was also cleared by Calvert-Lewin right on the goal line.
That was a positive reaction. We told each other during the break that we needed to remain optimistic. The dressing room was somewhat disappointing, but that didn't lose faith" - Carrick shared.
Man United's short-term goal is still within reach. If they win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, they will get closer to the top 5 and a Champions League spot. However, this defeat has raised a big question mark for long-term ambitions.
After extending his contract for another year, Harry Maguire expressed his belief that a successful transfer window could help the team compete with Man City and Arsenal. However, with what they are showing, Man United will need more than an effective summer to narrow the gap.
A squad lacking depth continues to be a problem. The absence of Kobbie Mainoo causes the midfield to lose balance, while Manuel Ugarte has not been able to meet expectations. Notably, in 10 starts for Ugarte this season, Man United has only won one match.
Carrick does not seem too worried, but he clearly hopes Mainoo will return in time for the match against Chelsea. In defense, the personnel problem becomes even more difficult when Maguire is still at risk of being suspended, and Martinez faces a 3-match ban if the red card is maintained. At that time, Carrick may be forced to use the young duo Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.
The problems with squad depth are a clear warning if Man United wants to compete in both the Premier League and Champions League next season.
In the opposite direction, Leeds took another important step in the relegation race when they created a 6-point gap with the relegation group.
I am very proud. This is my first victory here. The important thing is that we played bravely and attacked. If you only defend, you will not be able to score points at Old Trafford" - Farke shared.
When the song "United has returned" echoed from the away team's stands, the Man United fans who remained could only ask themselves: when will they really be able to sing that song?
