Merson warns Man Utd lack depth ahead of Manchester Derby

On the eve of the Manchester Derby, Arsenal legend Paul Merson stood in the shadow of Old Trafford and repeated his pre‑season view that Man Utd will finish outside the Premier League’s top five. He warned that the Red Devils’ squad depth could decide the outcome of the Sunday clash.

The Red Devils concentrated on rebuilding their midfield over the summer after Casemiro left Old Trafford on a free transfer. Rumours linked Man Utd to Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson, but both targets proved too expensive for the club.

Midfield rebuild after Casemiro’s exit

Instead, Man Utd triggered a £35m release clause in Youri Tielemans’ deal at Aston Villa, while Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba arrived from Chelsea and Brighton in deals amounting to £113m. Reports also suggested a left‑back and a left‑winger were high on the list, and a striker could be signed if Joshua Zirkzee departs. Back‑up goalkeeper Karl Darlow and Tottenham youngster Tynan Thompson were the only other signings, disappointing some fans.

Man Utd have had a mixed start to the new season with a win, a draw and a loss, and they also beat Sabah in the Champions League on Thursday.

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Merson’s warning ahead of the derby

Ahead of the Manchester Derby against Man City on Sunday, Merson doubted the Red Devils have a deep enough squad to be successful on multiple fronts. He told, “Man Utd have got the Manchester derby – and their season is in the balance too. If you beat Man City, you’re flying. If you get beat by Man City, here we go again.”

He added, “I don’t think Man Utd have bought very well. The squad isn’t big enough. It’s nowhere near enough. Defensively they’re nowhere near good enough – they let in two goals against Everton, both quality strikes.”

Merson also urged a tactical shift, saying, “When you’re winning, put another forward on. Don’t take a forward off and put a defender on. It changes the game completely.”

His warning remains unchanged from the start of the season; he still does not see Man Utd in the top five of the Premier League and stresses that drawing games will hurt their ambitions.