Michael Carrick faces defensive concerns at Manchester United

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces pressure to address defensive vulnerabilities following a winless streak in league play. The club has conceded two or more goals in each of its first three league matches this season, a feat rarely seen in the last 50 years. Data indicates the squad is covering less ground and completing fewer sprints than opponents, raising concerns about team intensity. While the attack has produced seven goals, the defensive instability persists despite a relatively stable start to the campaign. Carrick, who earned a permanent contract after an interim spell that included wins against Manchester City and Arsenal, now prepares for a rematch against Manchester City at Old Trafford. Improving team work rate and defensive organization remains the primary focus before the upcoming derby.

• 4:08 PMYahoo Sports — Michael Carrick has a big Man United problem to solve to stop feel-good factor crumbling away