By: Omachonu Kelvin

The Old Trafford hasn’t felt the presence of the Premier League trophy since the 2012/13 season when club legend, Sir Alex Ferguson, reclaimed the trophy from Manchester City. As much as the triumph echoed the dominance of the Red Devils in England, it also signalled the end of an era – the Ferguson era. 

Since Ferguson left, it’s been disappointment after disappointment: David Moyes, Mourinho, Van Gaal, all failed to lead United to the English Holy Grail. 

However, there seems to be a new spirit of belief in Manchester, not because of the presence of a new gaffer, but because of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Since arriving at Manchester, the Portuguese star has found the net three times in two appearances, and his personality has rubbed off on his teammates, as the United players play more confident football. Mason Greenwood has also been phenomenal this season, his dying minute clincher against Wolverhampton wanderers in testament to that. 

Also, Manchester United have improved on an issue that hurt them last season; squad depth. The Red Devils can now boast of Jesse Lingard, Rashford, Sancho and maybe Martial (when he is in his elements). Their squad depth came to the fore last weekend, as Jesse Lingard got off the bench to secure a 2-1 victory against West Ham.

Whilst the defence has looked shaky, as the center pair of Maguire and Varane are yet to gel, De Gea has produced performances reminiscent of his form some seasons ago, which attracted Los Blancos to him. 

With Manchester City flopping, and Liverpool set to lose their crucial two – Mane and Salah – in January, it all tilts in favour of Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, it cannot be over-emphasised; the importance of a well-grounded gaffer. Solskjaer hasn’t inspired a lot of confidence since he took over at the club. And the latest example of times when his ineptitude has shown was last week’s Champions League loss to Young Boys. 

However, the United faithful will hope that his tactical errors are reduced to the minimum, and this season turns out good for them.