Aniket Rai
Why Michael Owen is wrong to play down Manchester United title hopes after Aston Villa win
Speaking to Premier League productions after the win against Aston Villa (h/t Metro), Michael Owen said that Manchester United would struggle to win the league this season as they are a step behind Manchester City and Liverpool.
Manchester United showed resilience to regain their lead after Bertrand Traore’s 58th-minute equaliser and hung on for a win. But Michael Owen does not think they have what it takes to go all the way.
“I’m not sure they can win the title… I still think they’re a step behind [Manchester City & Liverpool] and I still think it will be a struggle for them to win the title.”
Owen could not be more wrong. While he does acknowledge that ‘anything is possible’ in the title race, his lack of confidence in the United side makes little sense.
Stats to back the claim
Since the defeat to Arsenal on the first day of November, United are undefeated in their last 10 league games. In that time, United have shown why they are serious title contenders.
The late wins against Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers just goes to show the mentality of the team.
A draw against Manchester City was an indicator that the club are level with their title rivals in terms of performances, while the 6-2 smashing of Leeds United highlighted the club’s attacking capabilities and ruthlessness.
In a period where teams such as Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur have struggled to win consistently, United have won 8 out of their last 10 league matches.
More Manchester United News:
- Manchester United linked with Sevilla defender Jules Kounde
- Manchester United outcast Sergio Romero a target for Brighton
- Liverpool beat Manchester United to the signing of Stefan Bajcetic
Whether it’s a top of the table clash against Manchester City, a scrap against a defensive team such as Wolves, or a high-intensity game against Leeds, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have passed all the tests recently.
No one in the league has more points than United, and they deserve to be taken seriously after recent showings. Any positive result away to defending champions Liverpool on January 17 will only add to this claim.
