Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane has suggested that Erik ten Hag's side will be focused on achieving a top four finish and winning a trophy this season, despite consistent talk of a title challenge.
The Reds sat in fourth place ahead of their Premier League clash with league-leaders Arsenal on Sunday afternoon, with United having climbed the table in recent months after a disappointing start to the campaign. Ten Hag's men look well-placed to secure Champions League football next term, but there is also the possibility of winning three trophies.
United, who are still competing in the Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Europa League, are the only team in England still competing on all four fronts. However, while there has been talk of Ten Hag's men being part of a title race with Arsenal and Manchester City, former captain Keane has slightly played down expectations.
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When asked if the clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium was vital if United are indeed to challenge for the title, Keane suggested that winning the Premier League might still be out of reach for the Reds at the moment.
"I think so," Keane said on Sky Sports. "When you think of the start at United - Arsenal have obviously had a great start and they’ve kept the momentum going and top of the table, fantastic - but it’s a huge game and from United’s point of view they were so slow out of the blocks, new manager in, couple of new signings to settle in, and it took them a while to get going.
"I think United will still be looking at maybe top four, and winning a cup. Whereas Arsenal have had such a great start to the season, they will have to be looking at it [the title] the form they’re in. It’s a realistic chance, the position they’re in, of winning the title.
"It’s probably still a bit too much for United, the pressure on them is that United have to win the game today whereas even a draw for Arsenal wouldn’t be too bad, but it’s must-win for United.
"I hate saying that because it’s obviously difficult and there’s a long way to go yet, but you look at the table, teams below with one or two games in hand, it is a must-win game for United."
United's first-leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie with Nottingham Forest takes place on Wednesday night, with the Reds looking to win their first trophy since 2017.
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