Exclusive: Lee Sharpe Provides Manchester United Preview Ahead of 2026/27
Manchester United head into the new season with a renewed hope – one that feels different to previous years.
After an impressive run in the second half of the season, Michael Carrick has now landed the head coach role on a permanent basis.
His squad has been further bolstered by a handful of signings such as Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans being the two biggest names.
Former Manchester United star Lee Sharpe spoke exclusively to EPL Index, and shared his thoughts on the upcoming season…
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“I think he’s a class act, he knows how to treat people and how to get the best out of people. He knows what Manchester United fans, the board, and directors expect from him and he genuinely wants it,” said Sharpe.
“He’s brought in some brilliant signings as well as the players who were already there, and they are motivated. It seems like a much more positive environment, with the players prepared to run through brick walls for him. He’s shown the players a lot of love and they’ll show that back.”
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“I think they’ll be challenging on every account. Some people may call me stupid, but they finished 3rd last year behind Arsenal and City sides that ran away with it, with Carrick only joining halfway through the season,” continued Sharpe.
“Amorim was close to getting them where they needed to be, they were one of the best teams in terms of chances created under him, but they just weren’t scoring. Carrick has come in and brought with him bits of what Amorim did.”
“I think Amorim brought a lot to the club, perhaps more on the under-belly, and Carrick has come in and put the icing on the cake. They went out and beat the best teams last year, so I think they’ll be challenging again, and there is no reason why they can’t do that.”
Ones to Watch
When asked which players to look out for, Sharpe picked an interesting name…
“Mason Mount has looked sensational in preseason, alongside Santos and Tielemans coming in, who is a thoroughbred by the way. Things are looking rosy, but there will always be sticky spells. I am very optimistic and positive going into it though,” said Sharpe.
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Mount has massively struggled for both form and fitness since his arrival at Old Trafford. Sharpe thinks he could be about to finally prove his worth under Carrick.
All will be revealed when Manchester United face an away trip to Hull City on the opening weekend of the Premier League.
Further signings are expected, but as it stands, you’d still fancy Man United to make a serious push at the top end of the table this season.