(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Rio Ferdinand has called upon Michael Carrick to make one key attacking change that could change Manchester United’s fortunes.
Following a turbulent start to 2026/2027, Carrick will already be going back to the drawing board over the international break to mull over where it’s been going wrong for his side.
How Carrick’s United side has fared over the last month
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 16: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United reacts after the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford on September 16, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
United have claimed just five points from their opening five Premier League matches, leaving them 12th-placed after Sunday’s draw with Fulham.
They now have three weeks to dwell on the dismal string of results, which has also seen them exit the Carabao Cup at the first hurdle for the second successive season.
Awaiting Carrick and his men next time out is a home clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, October 10, with the North London outfit winless since the campaign got underway.
Manchester United’s out-of-possession stats in the PL this season: – 20th in distance at high intensity– 20th in time spent at high intensity– 20th in sprints– 20th in time sprinting – 17th in % of time walking out of possession [sky] pic.twitter.com/5s9wTKGWTz — utdreport (@utdreport) September 20, 2026
What did Ferdinand have to say?
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 20: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United is challenged by Timothy Castagne of Fulham during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage on September 20, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
In the meantime, Ferdinand shared one tactical tweak that he thinks will give defenders ‘something to think about’.
He has urged his former teammate to play Marcus Rashford through the middle as a centre-forward while putting Matheus Cunha on the left flank.
Put Marcus thru middleCunha on leftGive the CB something different to think about? — Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) September 20, 2026
So far this season, Carrick has persisted with utilising Cunha in the No.9 role, despite that not being his natural position.
Out-and-out striker Benjamin Sesko has yet to start in the league, even though he boasts a pretty impressive record under the manager.
Appearances Starts Goals Minutes played 19 8 9 801
Sesko’s record since Carrick took charge (all competitions)
Rashford has yet to return a goal or assist since being reintegrated into the squad over the summer, and Cunha got off the mark (in the PL) over the weekend via his late equaliser at Craven Cottage.
Read more: ‘I am very sorry…’ — United star speaks out after MEN journo confirms growing ‘tension’ behind the scenes
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 29: Lewis Hall of Newcastle United looks on during the warm up before the Premier League 2026/27 match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 29, 2026 in London, England.
‘I am very sorry…’: Man Utd star speaks out after MEN journo confirms growing ‘tension’ behind the scenes
INEOS give Carrick ultimatum as ‘top class’ manager is ‘very keen’ on Man Utd job – Report Sep 22 2026, 7:51