Paul Merson warns Man United likely to finish outside EPL top five this season
Paul Merson, Arsenal legend and Sky Sports pundit, warned that Manchester United will likely finish outside the Premier League top five this season, speaking ahead of the club’s Sunday derby with Manchester City. He said the squad is not big enough and the defence is nowhere near good enough, pointing to the two goals conceded against Everton as evidence.
This matters because United’s supporters, sponsors, and the club’s leadership must now recalibrate season goals—outside the top five means missing Champions League football and relying on Europa League or domestic cups for European qualification. The prediction comes at a critical moment, with the derby offering an early test of United’s ability to compete with rivals.
Will you still back United for a top‑four finish, or adjust your expectations to focus on cup competitions and a possible Europa League run? Consider whether recent signings and tactical tweaks can shore up the defence and squad depth before the season progresses.