SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2026 · ISSUE 113
Manchester United remain in the Premier League relegation zone after a dramatic 4-4 draw with Aston Villa at Old Trafford, intensifying pressure on manager Michael Carrick as the club struggles to reverse its declining fortunes.
In a chaotic eight-goal encounter, United twice recovered from two-goal deficits, with Patrick Dorgu scoring a 96th-minute equaliser to rescue a point.
Despite the late drama, frustration among supporters was evident, with sections of the crowd booing and protesting during the match. Defender Diogo Dalot was also targeted before being substituted in the 66th minute.
The result leaves United 18th in the standings, their lowest league position after at least 10 matches in approximately 40 years.
United have now gone without a league victory since defeating Ipswich on August 30, conceding 15 goals in their last five matches.
Their defensive struggles have been particularly concerning, having conceded inside the opening two minutes in three of their last seven games.
Carrick dismissed suggestions that he would walk away from his position when questioned after the match, insisting that his priority was getting the club back to winning ways.
Former United captain Roy Keane described conceding four goals at home as dreadful but praised the players for continuing to fight. Former striker Dion Dublin, however, questioned how long the team could sustain such physically and mentally demanding performances.
Dorgu admitted that the draw offered little satisfaction given United’s predicament, urging his teammates to take responsibility and unite behind their manager.
United now face a difficult trip to Anfield to meet arch-rivals Liverpool on November 22, as they attempt to end their poor run and climb out of the relegation zone.