The Red Devils have nine games left this season in hopes of finishing in the top four. We look at the four critical games they must win in order to accomplish so.
Manchester United has nine games left this season to try to secure a place in the Champions League.
The Red Devils are fifth in the Premier League as the international break approaches, one point behind Arsenal in fourth place and having played one more game than the Gunners.
Their form heading into the break isn’t what they’d like it to be, with only one win in their past five games across all competitions, including a 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid last time out.
With no silverware available following their European withdrawal and the team lying just outside the top four, it is critical that they do all possible to finish ahead of those in and around them.
Let’s take a look at the four critical games United must win if they are to secure the final Champions League position this season.
United vs. Leicester City on April 2nd
The Red Devils’ first game back from international duty against Leicester City is crucial in their pursuit of a top-four finish, especially because Arsenal plays Aston Villa on Saturday and may move four points ahead of United with a win.
If the distance between the Gunners and Ralf Rangnick’s side widens, a win over Leicester is critical to, one, getting back to winning ways, and two, closing the gap in the league rankings.
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Liverpool vs. Manchester United – April 19
The Red Devils’ trip to Anfield is crucial for their pursuit for the top four as well as avenging an ugly 5-0 loss to Liverpool earlier this season.
Rangnick’s side might also help their rivals Manchester City in their pursuit of the Premier League championship if they win in Merseyside.
Arsenal vs. Manchester United – April 23
United away matches against their nearest opponent for a Champions League spot on April 23 is perhaps their most important remaining tie this season.
If they don’t return to Manchester with three points from their trip to north London, especially if they lose to the Gunners, their chances of finishing in the top four are all but finished.
United vs. Chelsea – May 15
The Red Devils face Chelsea at Old Trafford in their second-to-last game of the season.
A win for United here, especially if they win at the Emirates Stadium first, might all but guarantee them a fourth-place finish, depending on other teams’ performances.
The Red Devils’ remaining nine games are listed below:
United vs Leicester – April 2
Everton vs United – April 9
United vs Norwich City – April 16
Liverpool vs United – April 19
Arsenal vs United – April 23
United vs Brentford – May 2
Brighton & Hove Albion vs United – May 7
United vs Chelsea – May 15
Crystal Palace vs United – May 22
