In a stunning Premier League upset, Manchester United suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace, casting a shadow over their aspirations for European competition, as they now trail behind Chelsea and Newcastle in the league standings.
On a challenging Monday evening, Manchester United faced a resounding 4-0 loss at Selhurst Park. Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner’s leadership, saw Michael Olise score twice, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell also finding the net, propelling the team to a commanding victory and relegating United to the eighth spot. Erik ten Hag’s squad has struggled to find form, securing only two wins since March—a 4-2 triumph against Sheffield United and a nail-biting penalty shootout victory in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City.
The Red Devils now face the grim prospect of not participating in European tournaments for the first time in a decade, as their closest competitors surge ahead. The remaining fixtures for United, as well as for Newcastle and Chelsea, are pivotal in the race for Europe.
Manchester United (8th)
Arsenal (H), May 12
Newcastle United (H), May 15
Brighton & Hove Albion (A), May 19
Chelsea (7th)
Nottingham Forest (A), May 11
Brighton (A), May 15
Bournemouth (H), May 19
Newcastle United (6th)
Brighton & Hove Albion (H), May 11
Manchester United (A), May 15
Brentford (A), May 19
Assessment: Manchester United’s remaining schedule appears daunting, especially with a looming match against title contenders Arsenal at Old Trafford. Their quest for a European spot could very well hinge on the outcome of their encounter with Newcastle, which is shaping up to be a decisive battle for continental qualification.
Chelsea, on the other hand, can approach their upcoming matches with optimism, though an away game against Nottingham Forest may present challenges, given the latter’s fight against relegation. In the end, it seems increasingly probable that United will conclude the season in eighth place, marking their lowest position in the history of the Premier League.
