There is more optimism around Old Trafford now than there was a year ago. With the second half of the season upon us, Erik ten Hag has Manchester United right in the thick of the battle for a top four finish.
Manchester United need to get back into the Champions League and there are two ways to achieve that this season. By winning the Europa League outright or by finishing in the Premier League’s top four.
I believe both feats are achievable.
Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that United are so far enjoying an ‘exceptional season’ in their debut campaign under Ten Hag. He gave credit to United and Arsenal for their efforts this season.
“I think it was tough [Champions League qualification] every year, to be honest,” Klopp said, as per the Manchester Evening News. “We did it quite early for three of the last four years.
“Credit to us if you want because it was always tricky but, of course, awe all knew that Newcastle would be a massive contender from now on and it’s clear with Man United and Arsenal playing an exceptional season, all respect for that, City is City so all of a sudden you have four teams occupying, Tottenham fighting hard, Chelsea still there.
“We are back to a top six or top seven, if you like, and only four can make it. We know that, we know that absolutely. The quality of the opponents is obviously clear but most of the things we can still sort ourselves.
“If they win all the time we cannot get closer but we meet some of them and, for us, we are under pressure like other teams are under pressure because it’s not the nicest thing to have us three or five points behind you. That doesn’t give you any kind of security but we better play a special second half of the season to have a chance to make it to the Champions League, which is obviously our target.”
The Red Devils currently sit one point adrift of fourth place – with a game in-hand on Tottenham — after we all hope momentum can be built after winning our last two matches back-to-back. It has been a strong return from United – post World Cup – and long may that continue.
United are four points clear of Liverpool which could change tonight when the Scousers take on Leicester City. Ten Hag’s side must wait until Saturday for their trip to Molineux.
