Can Man United attack the Premier League title without defensive cover?

All eyes will be on who can mount the best title challenge to Manchester City’s centurion club this season.

Pep Guardiola’s men ran away with the league, winning 100 points. But United’s own achievement  went under the radar.

Jose Mourinho guided his side to 81 points – their highest tally since they last won the title in 2012-13.

The Coral News team take a look at how well placed the Red Devils are to be a real contender this campaign…

Manager’s uncertainty

Mourinho hasn’t been in the best of moods so far in preseason. The Portuguese manager is pining for ‘his’ players back. Citing Ashley Young, Phil Jones and Marouane Fellaini as vital to his plans.

He’s been vocal in his sympathy for Alexis Sanchez as the only attacking option in the travelling camp over in the US.

But it’s at centre-back where his problems lie. Reports claim the club drew up a nine-man shortlist to beef up their defence.

Advances for Toby Alderweireld have stalled and a move for Leicester City’s Harry Maguire has yet to happen.

Chris Smalling is at greatest risk of being ousted from Old Trafford. Mourinho likes Jones and Eric Bailly but will also want to give Victor Lindelof a chance to succeed.

They may have a world-class goalkeeper in David De Gea. But without a new defender, the chasing pack – including a new-look Liverpool – will be hot on their heels.

Refreshed strike-force

One area where Mourinho is well stocked is in attack. Anthony Martial could yet depart Manchester but with a revitalised Sanchez they have a potent forward.