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7 September 2026

A fresh worrying statistic has emerged, and it makes for grim reading for Michael Carrick and his Manchester United players.

United were denied all three points at the Hill Dickinson Stadium after substitute Ainsley Maitland-Niles struck a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser.

Bryan Mbeumo put United ahead with an excellent finish shortly after half-time. But, for reasons that were not immediately clear, the Red Devils retreated into their shell and allowed Everton to take control of the contest.

Everton eventually found their reward in the 83rd minute when Tyrique George smashed an effort past Senne Lammens.

Benjamin Sesko’s first goal of the season appeared set to be the winner, only for United to suffer a late blow when Maitland-Niles fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner from outside the area.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Carrick acknowledged he was disappointed that his side failed to close the match out.

Carrick did, however, point to one rare positive: United showed attacking intent and were perhaps unfortunate not to score more goals.

But the most concerning issue for many supporters is just how vulnerable United have looked defensively in the early weeks of the 2026/27 season.

United opened their campaign with a 2-0 loss to Hull City, but responded strongly by coming from behind to beat Ipswich Town 5-2. Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Everton carried on their inconsistent start.

OptaJoe noted: “For just the second time in the last 50 years, Manchester United have conceded 2+ goals in each of their first three games of a league season.”

The only other occasion this happened was in 2020/21 under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The choice not to strengthen the defence during the summer transfer window has left United with very little margin for error. Carrick and his coaching staff must now find solutions from within the current squad if they are to prevent their progress from being knocked off course.