Manchester United have received a huge boost in the Premier League this week as Michael Carrick’s aim for the team becomes clear.
It was another outstanding result and performance from Manchester United over the weekend, as they became the first side to defeat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this season, and did so in convincing fashion.
Despite conceding twice, Michael Carrick’s side remained defensively disciplined, with an own goal and a set-piece the only ways Arsenal were able to breach them.
In fact, Mikel Arteta’s team managed just one clear-cut opportunity throughout the match, which resulted in Mikel Merino’s goal from a corner.
United’s defensive strength has been evident in recent weeks, having also kept Manchester City largely quiet the previous weekend, when Pep Guardiola’s side failed to register a single big chance and managed only one shot on target.
United receive huge Premier League boost
United are currently fourth in the Premier League table but there are many teams fighting for the European spots at the moment, yet the Reds have received a boost in the efforts to return to Europe’s elite competition.
With the Champions League group stage now complete, it appears increasingly likely that finishing fifth in the Premier League will be enough to secure qualification for next season’s competition.
Every English club involved in this season’s Champions League progressed to the knockout rounds, including Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Tottenham.
That collective success is reflected in UEFA’s coefficient rankings, where England currently sit at the top of the table. Under the new system, two additional Champions League places are awarded to the two highest-ranked nations.
England lead the standings with an average coefficient of 20.069 points, ahead of Germany on 15.285 and Spain on 14.700.
While the rankings can still change, England’s strong position, coupled with six clubs competing in the group stages, makes it highly likely they will finish in the top two, earning the Premier League an extra Champions League place for next season.
Carrick’s aim becomes clear
Carrick’s team must not grow complacent and they have to prove that they can turn up against any team in the league, and not just their rivals.
But if they can perform as many expect them to, qualifying for the Champions League is a realistic target and one the players know they must aim for.
The extra slot for qualification gives them an even bigger chance of matching that aim.
Fulham is the next test for Carrick’s side. If they produce another solid performance and grab three points, many fans will start gaining confidence ahead of the final stretch of the season.
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