On paper, we should have six wins from six.
On paper.
I'm sure by now you've all seen the 26/27 fixtures released and it's looking good brev as United begin what is to be one hell of a campaign with Carricky at the wheel with a trip to newly-promoted Hull followed by the visit of newly-promoted Ipswich.
You see? On paper, that should be a guaranteed 6 points.
And when you look a little further, you'll feel that perhaps this could truly be the season no 21 really comes home.
We begin September by going to Everton before the first derby of the season as City come to Old Trafford. Fulham away rounds up the month.
October does see us face two of the other 'big six' teams in Spurs and Chelsea but between them it's Leeds and Bournemouth.
A very favourable first nine games indeed.
But that is precisely what makes things even harder 👇.
It adds more pressure because they're easier. It adds more pressure to deliver signings because we don't want to be heading into those games without key players. And it adds more pressure onto the club because of them saying that they would like to win the league in the next season or two.
No places to hide.
Btw, United play Liverpool at Anfield on November 11th with the reverse being on January 23rd.
But what do you make of these opening fixtures? Do you reckon it gives us a greater opportunity to start the campaign on the strong foot en route to a potential title? Or will this add pressure for United to go out and get the points?
Man Utd will face Hull City away in opening fixture of 26/27 Premier League | Image via Manchester United official X (@ManUtd)