Man United snubbed: Opta Analyst backs rival club to steal third place in the Premier League

Manchester United are beginning to show signs of vulnerability for the first time under interim manager Michael Carrick.

After a flying start, momentum has stalled. Man United have managed just one win in their last four outings, including a frustrating 2-1 defeat to Leeds United on Monday evening.

Favourable results elsewhere have kept the Red Devils firmly in contention for a top-five finish and UEFA Champions League qualification.

Carrick remains the leading candidate to take the managerial role permanently, but guiding United to a third-place finish could be the decisive factor.

According to the Opta Analyst, United held a commanding 53.35% probability of finishing third just a month ago.

However, recent setbacks have taken their toll, with those odds dropping significantly to 37.97%.

Even more concerningly, Aston Villa have surged ahead with a 46.06% chance of leapfrogging United into third place.

Such numbers will come as a blow to Carrick, especially after statement victories over Manchester City and Arsenal had elevated him to fan-favourite managerial candidate.

United have a tough fixture list ahead.

A trip to Stamford Bridge awaits next, followed by a home clash against a high-flying Brentford side.

They will then host arch-rivals Liverpool before facing a strong Sunderland side on the road.

The ultimate target for Carrick is to secure Champions League football for next season.

United still boast a 91% probability of finishing in the top five, which should be enough to qualify for the elite European competition.

Achieving that would mark a successful campaign for the Red Devils, given the challenges they have faced.

However, if Carrick truly wants to make the managerial role his own, he must inspire his squad to push beyond expectations and lock down a top-three finish.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .