Manchester United veering towards crisis as City cloud hangs over Premier League race

United face a difficult Leeds trip

United have made their worst league start in 40 years. A 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday was followed by Martinez’s criticism of the club’s leadership over investment, though the defender later apologised.

Martinez has also been at fault in goals conceded against Fulham and Tottenham in recent weeks. Carrick’s side next travel to Leeds, where United have not won a league match at Elland Road since 2002.

Leeds beat United at home in April last season, handing Carrick the only defeat of his interim spell in charge. Carrick described the upcoming occasion as a chance for his team to respond, saying they would be ready for the game.

City seek to extend their lead

Manchester City can move six points clear at the top if they beat visiting Ipswich on Saturday. Arsenal, currently second, play Nottingham Forest the following day. City beat Liverpool 3-0 last weekend and recovered strongly in the second half of a 4-2 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. The club denies wrongdoing in a case that began eight years ago.

The case is expected to continue for at least a few more months before an appeal is heard and a possible sanction is announced. The uncertainty remains alongside City’s bid to maintain their strong league start.

Brighton continue to rise

Brighton are two points behind Arsenal ahead of Sunday’s match against Crystal Palace. The club’s rise through the divisions and into European competition has been supported by owner Tony Bloom’s data expertise.

Brighton have regularly sold leading players to wealthier clubs, while recruitment of players and coaches has helped sustain their progress. Manager Fabian Hurzeler said the team wants to build an energetic home atmosphere with its fans. Hurzeler said Brighton aimed to be more ruthless and make their ground difficult for visiting teams.