Manchester United start their defence of the Carabao Cup against Crystal Palace on Tuesday but there won’t be an air of celebration to mark the first trophy won by the club in six years.
United’s recent history suggests that post-Sir Alex Ferguson, their most promising seasons are quickly followed by a nosedive.
Unless the team come through the next run of six easier-looking fixtures in a strong position, there will be fears of Erik ten Hag’s team imploding, just as those managed by Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer did, costing both men their jobs only months after finishing Premier League runners-up.