Manchester united might not have finished the season with silverware, but there were some quite remarkable improvements compared with the previous season. To begin with, Jose Mourinho’s men ended the season as runners
up, four positions up from what they had managed in 2016-2017. United also had 81 points, 12 more than the previous season. Other remarkable achievements included conceding fewer goals while scoring more. Winning the FA cup would have allowed United end the season on a high, but Chelsea made sure it wasn’t to be.

The start of the season looked very promising for united, with six out of seven wins in their first matches. However, their defeat at the hands of Huddersfield and then Chelsea seemed to set Mourinho’s men back, and soon it became clear that they would have to play catch up to eventual title winners Manchester City. Indeed, City’s win over United in December was enough to make Mourinho admit that all hope of winning the title was now probably over.

The team’s form during the second half of the season seemed patchy, with pundits and fans questioning the coach’s tactics at times. His conservative approach led to the defeat to Sevilla as United crashed out of the Champion’s league. His team selection also proved divisive. That said, though, there were still some very good days for Mourinho this season, with the win over rivals Manchester City at Etihad standing out.

That United are serious title contenders next season is something many people will question. As it is, Pep Gurdiola’s men are still the clear favorites. The arrival of new players in the summer will, of course, boost the team’s confidence. So far, Mourinho has signed a few notable names, with Fred the latest entrant into an arguably bland team. But if Manchester United are to mount any serious challenge for the title next year, Mourinho must improve their style of play.