Could a record-breaking points total still result in a trophy-less season?
In short: In the 2017–18 season, Manchester United achieved their highest Premier League points total since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Yet, despite amassing 81 points and finishing second, the club walked away without a single piece of silverware, leaving fans to debate the value of statistical progress versus actual glory.
The 2017–18 campaign marked a significant transition for the club. It was the first season in over a decade without Wayne Rooney, who had departed for Everton after 13 years and becoming the club's all-time top scorer. While the team returned to the Champions League following their 2016–17 UEFA Europa League victory, the season was defined by a tension between high-level performance and tactical frustration.
Statistically, the season was a success. United finished as runners-up in the Premier League with 81 points, their best league placing and points tally since Ferguson's retirement in 2013. However, this domestic momentum did not translate into trophies. The club finished as runners-up in both the FA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup, while suffering early exits in the EFL Cup to Bristol City and the Champions League to Sevilla.
The Champions League exit was particularly stinging. After winning their group—which included Benfica, Basel, and CSKA Moscow—United faced Sevilla in the round of 16. Following a 0–0 draw in the first leg, Sevilla's Wissam Ben Yedder scored twice as a substitute in the second leg. Although Romelu Lukaku scored late, United could not overcome the 2–1 deficit.
Under manager José Mourinho, the team's approach became a point of contention. Despite a wealth of attacking talent and the January signing of Alexis Sánchez, Mourinho faced criticism from supporters and the media for a playing style perceived as overly negative. This season highlighted the difficult balance between achieving high league standings and maintaining a winning, silverware-focused identity.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2017–18 Manchester United F.C. season
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-2017-18-manchester-united-f-c-season.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Born on this day · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
