Manchester United's recent performances have been described as weak, pitiful, and clueless, with a 2-0 loss to Newcastle marking their sixth defeat in December. This is the worst run in their Premier League history, with no signs of immediate improvement.
Ruben Amorim's rigid 3-4-3 system lacks flexibility and fails to utilize the team's strengths. His refusal to adapt and the team's lack of energy and running power have led to poor performances. Additionally, his man-management has been questioned, particularly with his handling of players like Marcus Rashford and Xerxe.
Manchester United's poor form, lack of confidence, and inability to compete with teams like Newcastle have raised concerns about relegation. The team's lack of quality and depth, combined with financial constraints, make it difficult to address these issues in the January transfer window.
Manchester United faces financial constraints, limiting their ability to make significant signings. The club needs to sell players to raise funds, but the quality of their squad makes it challenging to attract buyers willing to pay the desired amounts.
Nottingham Forest, predicted to finish near the relegation zone, are currently second in the Premier League. Their success is attributed to Nuno Espirito Santo's effective management, a cohesive squad, and standout performances from players like Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White.
Predictions for Nottingham Forest range from fifth to seventh place. Their strong team cohesion and effective tactics under Nuno Espirito Santo suggest they could secure a European spot, potentially even qualifying for the Champions League.
Enzo Maresca's constant rotation of players and his public downplaying of Chelsea's title chances have been criticized. This approach has led to a lack of momentum and weakened performances, with the team struggling to maintain consistency.
The panel's hopes for 2025 include VAR not being introduced in the Football League, Tottenham retaining Ange Postacoglu as manager, and at least one promoted team avoiding relegation. They also hope for the abolition of parachute payments to improve the competitiveness of both the Premier League and the Championship.
It goes from bad to worse at Old Trafford, are they really in a relegation fight? Will Amorim change his system, can he change his system? Ipswich have their first win in the Premier League this season at Portman Road; it came at the expense of a stuttering Chelsea side. Are Maresca’s problems self-inflicted ?
It’s time to give Nottingham Forest enormous credit, and Nuno Espirito Santo in particular. Forest are second, will they hold on to Champions league football?
Finally, Alyson Rudd, Charlotte Duncker and Gregor Robertson join Tom Clarke to offer their bold predictions for 2025.
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