**Anxiety Rising: Are We Heading for Another False Dawn Under Carrick?**

Listen, I wanted to believe. When Michael Carrick got the permanent gig back in May, there was genuine optimism flowing through the fanbase. A club legend, someone who understands United DNA, finally given the chance to build something real. But four matches into this Premier League campaign and the alarm bells are ringing loud and clear.

Jay Motty isn’t holding back, and frankly, neither should we. Calling this start ‘disastrous’ might sound dramatic, but when you look at where we are compared to expectations, it’s hard to argue. We brought in quality additions like Tielemans and Baleba to strengthen the squad depth. We’ve got genuine firepower with Cunha, Mbeumo and Šeško all established now in their second seasons. On paper, this team should be competing, not stumbling.

But here’s the real concern that Motty highlights: Marcus Rashford’s form. When Rashy struggles, United struggles. It’s been the story for years now, and we’re seeing it play out again. Our homegrown talisman looks lost, and if Carrick can’t unlock him quickly, we’re in serious trouble. The lad has world class ability, but something isn’t clicking under this system.

Look, it’s still early days. Carrick deserves time to implement his vision properly, and we’ve got quality throughout the squad with Bruno pulling strings, Mainoo developing beautifully, and that defensive spine of De Ligt and Martínez looking solid when fit. But patience at Old Trafford is thin these days, especially after the Amorim experiment fell flat.

The Champions League campaign is underway too, which only adds pressure. We can’t afford another season of mediocrity. Carrick needs results, Rashford needs form, and we supporters need something to believe in again. Fast.

✍️ This summary was written by the MUFC Fanatics SA team based on reporting from BBC Sport.

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