Why is it so difficult for Manchester united to stay in form in the 2025 season of the premier league?

Manchester United is one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, boasting a rich history filled with domestic triumphs and European glory. Yet, in the 2025 Premier League season, fans and pundits alike are asking the same burning question: why is it so difficult for Manchester United to stay in form in the 2025 season of the Premier League?

This article takes a deep dive into the tactical, psychological, managerial, and structural reasons behind United’s inconsistent performances this season. For football enthusiasts seeking an in-depth understanding of the club’s struggles, this piece provides clear insights without speculation—only facts, analysis, and expert breakdowns.

A Historic Club Under Pressure

Before exploring the current struggles, it’s essential to understand the weight of expectations at Manchester United. A club that once dominated the English Premier League under Sir Alex Ferguson now finds itself in a prolonged rebuilding phase.

Supporters are no longer satisfied with top-four finishes—they crave trophies. This context is crucial in addressing why it is so difficult for Manchester United to stay in form in the 2025 season of the Premier League. High expectations often amplify every dip in form.

1. Managerial Instability and Tactical Confusion

Erik ten Hag’s Shifting Tactics

In previous seasons, Erik ten Hag brought a sense of tactical identity to the team—pressing, possession, and structured buildup. But in 2025, we’ve seen a deviation from that blueprint. Injuries and squad imbalances have forced Ten Hag to adopt reactive lineups and inconsistent formations, resulting in tactical disarray.

The Dutchman has oscillated between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3, sometimes experimenting with a back three to compensate for defensive vulnerabilities. This inconsistency is a major reason why Manchester United is finding it difficult to maintain form in the 2025 Premier League season.

Unclear Roles for Key Players

Another contributing factor is the lack of clarity in roles for certain players. Jadon Sancho, Mason Mount, and even Bruno Fernandes have had to shift between positions—sometimes within a single match. Such instability breeds uncertainty and disrupts team chemistry.

2. Injuries: A Season Marred by Absences

If you ask any football analyst why it is so difficult for Manchester United to stay in form in the 2025 Premier League season, injuries would top the list. United’s squad has been ravaged by fitness concerns.

Key Absentees

• Lisandro Martínez: A crucial figure in defense who missed a large part of the campaign.

• Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia: Leaving United without a natural left-back for months.

• Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford: Inconsistent availability has weakened the attacking threat.

Without a consistent starting XI, it’s no surprise that form has suffered. Injuries don’t just affect matchday lineups—they also disrupt training routines and squad cohesion.

3. Lack of Depth and Squad Imbalance

Over-Reliance on Certain Players

In many matches this season, Manchester United has looked overly reliant on the individual brilliance of players like Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. When they’re out of form or unavailable, the team looks devoid of creativity and leadership.

This kind of imbalance is another clear reason why Manchester United is struggling to maintain consistency in the 2025 Premier League season. A successful campaign demands a deep, versatile squad—a luxury United currently lacks.

Defensive Issues

Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans have all been called upon, but defensive lapses have cost United precious points. The backline has lacked cohesion, particularly when pairing new or inexperienced players together under pressure.

4. Mental Resilience and Pressure

The Psychological Toll

Old Trafford is both a dream and a pressure cooker. Playing for Manchester United carries immense expectations. The psychological burden of repeated criticism—be it from fans, media, or former legends—can weigh heavily on even the most seasoned pros.

United’s inability to respond after conceding first or losing a match is telling. A lack of mental toughness is a lesser-discussed but important reason why it’s been so difficult for Manchester United to stay in form in the 2025 season of the Premier League.

5. Competition and Evolution of Rivals

The Rise of Arsenal, City, and Liverpool

The 2025 Premier League is more competitive than ever. Arsenal continues its resurgence, Manchester City remains relentless, and Liverpool has found new energy under a younger core. Even teams like Aston Villa and Brighton have improved their tactical setups and depth.

Manchester United, by contrast, seems to be treading water—caught between rebuilding and demanding immediate results. The league’s increasing intensity further exposes flaws in a side lacking full synchronization.

6. Youth Development and Transition

The Learning Curve for Young Talents

Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Amad Diallo represent the future, but they are still developing. Relying on young players during a turbulent season brings unpredictability. While they show flashes of brilliance, expecting consistent match-winning performances is unrealistic.

Youth integration is vital, but without experienced figures guiding them consistently, the learning curve becomes steeper. This transition period is one more layer in understanding why Manchester United is struggling to stay in form in the 2025 Premier League season.

7. Transfer Market Missteps

Incomplete Signings

Despite a sizable investment in the transfer market, United’s recruitment hasn’t always addressed core needs. Signing Mason Mount, for example, raised eyebrows when United desperately needed a more defensive-minded midfielder and another proven striker.

Erik ten Hag’s past connections to players like Antony may have influenced signings that haven’t panned out. Ineffective transfer strategies mean the squad remains unbalanced—a key factor in the difficulty Manchester United is facing in the 2025 Premier League season.

8. Lack of Identity and Cohesion

What Is Manchester United’s Playing Style?

When watching Manchester United this season, one can’t help but ask: what is their identity?

Unlike Pep Guardiola’s possession dominance or Klopp’s heavy-metal pressing, United’s style remains undefined. They switch between strategies game-to-game, often reacting to opponents rather than imposing themselves.

This absence of a clear footballing identity leaves players confused and results unpredictable, further answering the question of why Manchester United is finding it hard to stay in form during the 2025 Premier League season.

9. Leadership and Dressing Room Dynamics

Who Are the Leaders?

Since the departure of veterans like Nemanja Matić and David De Gea, leadership on and off the pitch has been lacking. Bruno Fernandes is the captain, but even his temperament has come under scrutiny in difficult moments.

Leadership is not just about wearing the armband—it’s about driving standards in training, demanding focus during games, and inspiring during adversity. The current leadership vacuum is a silent but powerful reason why Manchester United can’t find consistent form in the 2025 season.

10. Fan Pressure and Media Scrutiny

A Global Club Under the Microscope

Every result, every tactical decision, and every individual mistake is magnified at Manchester United. The club’s global stature means that even a single underwhelming performance is enough to trigger days of negative coverage.

This constant scrutiny creates an environment of fear, not freedom—a factor often overlooked when considering why Manchester United is struggling to maintain momentum in the 2025 Premier League season.

Conclusion: The Perfect Storm of Problems

So, why is it so difficult for Manchester United to stay in form in the 2025 season of the Premier League?

It’s not a single issue—it’s a combination of tactical instability, injuries, poor squad depth, psychological pressure, and a highly competitive league. All these elements compound into a “perfect storm” that makes consistency nearly impossible.

The club is in a transition phase—caught between its illustrious past and an uncertain future. Until structural problems are addressed and a clear footballing philosophy is restored, Manchester United will continue to struggle with form.

Yet, the beauty of football is its unpredictability. With smart transfers, stability in leadership, and a bit of patience, the Red Devils can rise again. After all, they are Manchester United.