Shocking Prediction: Why Manchester United Could Miss Top Five in Premier League This Season

Gary Neville predicts that Manchester United will not finish in the top five of the Premier League this season, despite praising Scott McTominay for his crucial goals that sealed a 2-1 win against Brentford on Saturday. This victory marked their fourth triumph in the Premier League so far.

Despite the victory, pundit Neville predicts that Manchester United will not surpass the sixth position and suggests that Chelsea is closer to securing a spot in the top five. On the latest episode of the Gary Neville Podcast, he stated, "I do not anticipate Manchester United finishing in the top five this season... however, they managed to prove me wrong last season despite a dismal beginning."

"Chelsea have got a lot of talented young players. The question mark will be centre-forward and experience if something happens to Thiago Silva.

Chelsea are just one centre-forward and one centre-half away from success, despite already spending £1bn. However, the recent victory over Brentford in the 93rd and 97th minutes does not alleviate the team's troubles or indicate that all is well. In fact, the current situation can be described as chaotic.

"They are far from it, which surprises me considering that just seven or eight weeks ago, I had them ranked third.

The issue lies in the goalkeeper not adapting swiftly. This poses a problem, as lack of stability in that position can lead to significant complications. I have experienced similar challenges at United."

Chelsea is likely close to securing a spot in the top five if they can maintain a winning streak, thanks to their exceptionally gifted young players. Moreover, their squad's average age surpasses that of Manchester United, making them even stronger contenders.

On Saturday, McTominay entered the field as a substitute in the 87th minute and swiftly scored two goals. Since he also emerged from the Manchester United academy, Neville defended the 26-year-old player against online criticism.

"I was delighted for Scott McTominay," he expressed. "The recent content I've observed on social media has been the epitome of a club in disarray, as it questions the dedication of a young player who has emerged from the academy.

"Apologies, but I cannot accept that. This individual would go to great lengths for the club. The burden he carries, along with the pressure and the sense of lacking support within the club, prevents him from truly giving his all."

Last season during a crucial stage in the title race with Arsenal, I addressed the issue of a young player experiencing heavy legs. Similar circumstances have emerged recently with Scott McTominay, who showcased exceptional performances for Scotland but appeared fatigued upon returning to play as the right of a diamond formation against Brighton.

Out of nowhere, clips emerge on social media showing him neglecting to run back. Instead of judging him for this, I see it as a result of the immense pressure and weight he has carried since he was a young boy at Manchester United.

Saturday marked a significant moment for him, and I was pleased to see some players return to the team. They have endured criticism and hardship, which is bound to happen when a club is struggling. It becomes difficult to distinguish between the heroes and villains, leading to criticism directed towards long-standing players.

The club has acquired some outstanding individuals who fully support and embrace its values. Additionally, there are talented individuals who have risen through the ranks of the club.

However, the current concern lies in the overall stability that is lacking throughout the club.