EPL: MAN UTD’S CARRICK ON BORROWED TIME, FREE-SCORING BRIGHTON FACE LIVERPOOL

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces growing pressure ahead of his side’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, while Brighton head to Liverpool hoping to continue their impressive scoring form.

United are looking to end a seven-game winless run that has raised questions about Carrick’s future. They sit 13th after collecting just seven points from their opening seven league matches.

Their difficulties deepened with a 4–1 Champions League defeat to Como in midweek. Captain Bruno Fernandes called for a braver approach afterwards, while Carrick questioned his players’ work rate.

The former United midfielder apologised to travelling supporters and stressed that tactics alone would achieve little without greater effort from the team.

Bournemouth’s visit now offers United an opportunity to rebuild confidence and ease the pressure surrounding their manager.

Meanwhile, third-placed Brighton face a major test of their strong start when they visit Liverpool at Anfield.

The Seagulls have scored 23 goals in seven league games, giving supporters plenty of reason for optimism. However, upcoming trips to Liverpool and Manchester City will provide a clearer measure of their ability to challenge near the top.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has urged his players to remain grounded and keep improving despite their early success.

Manchester City also face a demanding away fixture at Aston Villa as they seek to maintain their perfect league start. Villa enter the encounter in strong form, having won five and drawn one of their previous six matches across all competitions.

For United, the immediate priority is ending a damaging run. For Brighton, the challenge is proving their exciting start can survive one of the league’s toughest away trips.