We are just over two weeks away from the start of the 2018/2019 Premier League season.One club that will be desperate to improve on last season will be Manchester United.Jose Mourinho's side ended up finishing second in the table, although they were still a distant 19 points behind eventual champions, Manchester City.Given the points gap, many would have expected Mourinho to go all out in the transfer market in order to strengthen his side.However, his only two major signings have been Fred and Diogo Dalot.That is in contrast to Liverpool, who have spent over £150 million in transfers this summer. Man City too have strengthened, signing Riyad Mahrez in a £60 million move.So, with the Premier League season so nearly upon us, are Man United capable of challenging for the Premier League title once again?Paul Scholes has had his say, and it does not seem he is very confident in their chances."They will win a lot of games, don't get me wrong," Scholes told BeIN Sports. "But I think [Man] City are on a different level."I think Liverpool at times last season were on a different level as well. And they seem to be settled teams.
"United... you couldn't names a first eleven now. You have no idea who will be playing."The two centre-halves have been injured or out of form. They've got two good full-backs, but two ageing full-backs in Ashley Young and Antonio [Valencia]."They've both done really well, but are they good enough to win a title with?"Luke Shaw, who I think is a top left-back, has been frozen out and he needs to get himself right."I just think there's so many question marks about United's team, that tell me they're going to get close to City next season."
Well then. It seems Scholes is not very optimistic about the coming season.
Scholes has always given his honest opinion on Man United since retiring, and he clearly has no confidence in them winning their 21st league title.
It must be said, he does have a point though. On paper, Man United's side are no where near Man City's in terms of quality.
And it seems his pessimism may also be shared by Mourinho himself.
Instead of showing confidence going into the new season, the Portuguese manager decided to dodge a question about their Premier League chances.
When asked at a news conference earlier this week if he was confident of challenging, Mourinho said, per BBC Sport: "I don't answer your question."
However, Man United could still strengthen their squad significantly in the coming weeks and prove Scholes wrong.
Where do you think Man United will finish next season? Have your say by leaving a comment below.