in the last 5 seasons, the second placed team in the EPL has finished with 86 points (Tottenham in 2016/17), 81 points (Manchester United in 2017/18), 97 points (Liverpool in 2018/19), 81 points (Manchester City in 2019/20), and 74 points this season by Manchester United
I think it fair to say that this season's second place finish by Man U was the least impressive in recent memory and likely at least partially due to the condensed season due to the pandemic, Chelsea's fractured season with Frank Lampard sacked and Liverpool's injury crisis
Manchester United is not moving in the right direction
Interesting stats you bring up.
Have always said that this was the biggest chance for United to see to stake a claim to true title challengers. As you said, Liverpool and Chelsea had massive problems. The whole pandemic really levelled the playing field.
Was actually pretty impressed with United's form for large parts of the year. Kept getting results. Had a really really good collective attitude.
But faltered when it mattered most. Knocked out of CL in group stages. Couldn't get past semi finals in domestic comps. Lost a final they had every right to win.
Also your points about off the field are very interesting. Stadiums etc with rivals getting bigger and United being stagnant. They've always had a massive advantage over others because of their match day receipts but clubs like Liverpool are catching up.
Personally think having Ole is a disadvantage also. They should go all out to get someone like Zidane who'll bring some prestige back to the club and a better mentality.
City will buy a striker. As probably will Chelsea and other teams. Tuchel with a proper preseason will elevate Chelsea in a massive way. Two proper managers there. Klopp will bring in fresh faces and surely won't have the same injury problems. These three are going to get a lot better.
United? To get to that level they need 4-5 players of top quality. GK, CB, DM, ST and wide attacker. With their form in the transfer market and having to pay overs ... I wouldn't have belief they can turn it around