Targeting Top Four: United’s New Firepower Sparks a Bright Turn for Old Trafford

Manchester United have steadied their course after a shaky start, riding a run of big results into the upper echelons of the Premier League.

Momentum and turning points

Former England star Owen Hargreaves argues United are beginning to reap the benefits of a successful summer window, as they climb back into the Premier League's top four.

After a bumpy start to the campaign, the Red Devils have found balance again, with manager Ruben Amorim facing earlier-season pressure giving way to a brighter mood after two consecutive wins over rivals.

Just weeks ago, Amorim faced mounting doubts, but wins over Liverpool and Brighton have changed the atmosphere at Old Trafford.

Last week, United beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield, their first win there since 2016, before a dramatic 4-2 victory over Brighton on Saturday, marking three straight Premier League wins for the first time since early 2024.

New signings Bryan Mbouimo and Matheus Konia starred in the latest win, scoring three of United's four goals, with Casemiro adding the fourth via a deflected shot.

Mbouimo, who arrived from Brentford, and Konia, bought from Wolverhampton for 62.5 million pounds, have quickly become two of the team's most reliable performers, forming the backbone of Amorim's project.

“The results speak for themselves. If we look back at the season opener against Arsenal, United played well but lost undeservedly. Ultimately, results are what matter most,” Hargreaves said, recalling the early concerns but emphasizing growth in outcomes.

“What I like about Konia is his character. Him and Mbouimo, along with Bruno Fernandes, are players you can rely on and trust at all times.”

Hargreaves also noted that the team is beginning to rediscover its attacking identity: “Manchester United score goals, look dangerous in the final third, even though they still concede more than ideal. They’ve shipped 14 goals in nine matches, but the trend is positive. The young goalkeeper who arrived has made a noticeable difference.”

Remarks from Amorim

Amorim, delighted with the win over Brighton, stressed the importance of preserving the current momentum while preparing carefully for the next fixture. “It’s a wonderful feeling. Hearing the fans celebrate matters a lot. We must enjoy this moment, but we also must be ready for what comes next. In football, things can change quickly, but as long as we maintain belief and hard work, we will become a better team.”

On Konia’s red-hot form, the coach added: “He had been going through a tough spell, and perhaps didn’t show it publicly, but I could sense it. His response against Liverpool and today against Brighton proves he never stops working, with or without the ball, and he will be a key piece for us.”

Amorim also highlighted that Konia and Mbouimo still need to keep scoring to sustain confidence, noting that big-match goals can define a team’s season. “The moments you don’t score are painful, but great forwards are defined by decisive contributions in important games.”

Return of confidence

The recent results have restored belief within the group—players, staff, and supporters alike—after a difficult start to the season. Amorim has managed to fuse the experience of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro with fresh arrivals, injecting energy and purpose into United’s play.

The Portuguese coach faced heavy pressure in September, but the victories over Liverpool and Brighton have revived hope that United are moving in the right direction. He is keen to maintain the balance between resilience and attacking impetus as the season progresses.

Looking ahead, United travel to Nottingham Forest under manager Sean Dyche, presenting another demanding test for the team’s ability to sustain form and cohesion. A win there would consolidate a place in the top four and could ignite a serious push for European qualification, which has been Amorim’s central objective since taking charge of the storied club.

Nevertheless, Amorim acknowledges there is still work to be done defensively and in concentration, but he remains confident that the methodical, patient approach is beginning to bear real fruit for long-term stability.

In brief, the blend of trusted veterans and bold new signings has recharged United’s ambitions, and supporters are daring to dream of a sustained assault on the top end of the table.

Punchline 1: Target acquired: top four. Range: Old Trafford. Ammo: goals.

Punchline 2: If the defense keeps missing, don't worry—the attackers just bought a bigger clip. This squad is shooting straight now.