Andrey Santos highlights five players he thinks can help change Man Utd’s fortunes

When Andrey Santos signed for Manchester United in the summer, the Brazilian midfielder didn’t think the team would be struggling, after finishing third in the Premier League.

Everything went to plan for Michael Carrick when he returned to Manchester United last summer. The team became consistent enough to finish third and secure Champions League qualification.

Revamping the midfield was always on the agenda because everyone knew Casemiro would leave at the end of the season. However, those who replaced the Brazilian have yet to show any real improvements in the middle of the pitch, even though it is widely accepted that the veteran was years past his best.

After a slow start, struggling for game time, Andrey Santos is getting a run in the team because Kobbie Mainoo has been nursing an injury. The 22-year-old started in United’s 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night, and he’s expected to keep his place against Bournemouth on Sunday.

Andrey Santos has his say on Man Utd slump

The pressure is mounting on Carrick as United’s slump worsened midweek with a humiliating defeat against Como. It means United have won just two of their first 11 matches across all competitions.

There are similarities to when Solskjaer got the permanent job, though the Norwegian overcame it and kept his job. Carrick’s future remains unknown.

It’s now up to Carrick and the players to turn things around by winning football matches. He will be fearing for his job on Monday if he doesn’t secure three points this weekend.

Speaking to Premier League Productions’ Preview Show, Santos named five United players he believes can help stop the slump. He also stresses that everyone needs to be together, echoing what Senne Lammens said ahead of the match.

“The only way to change the situation here our staff, our players, our supporters is together,” Santos said.

“We have to believe because everyone wants to change the situation. We have to wake up and work hard every single day because we have a lot of good players – Carlos. Mason, Bruno, Kobbie, Youri. So I think this connection is so important.”

It’s a stretch to say this about Mason Mount as he hasn’t been a reliable force in the team since signing from Chelsea. Injuries have undoubtedly been his biggest hindrance in a red shirt.

As for the other players, they all need to stand up and take responsibility. Especially after that dire display in Italy midweek.