Manchester United extended their winless streak to nine Premier League games following a 2-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Despite a strong first-half showing, United was unable to capitalize on chances and suffered a setback early in the second half. Chelsea’s Morgan Rogers scored with a solo effort before a penalty converted by Cole Palmer shortly after sealed the result. The visitors’ situation worsened when defender Lisandro Martinez received a red card for conceding the penalty in the 63rd minute.
The defeat further intensified pressure on United manager Michael Carrick, who has now presided over the club’s longest winless run since 1988. United has managed just seven points from its first nine league matches and has lost four consecutive Premier League games. Nevertheless, Carrick received a warm reception from traveling supporters after the final whistle. Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace’s defeats helped United avoid slipping into the relegation zone.
Manchester City, the Premier League leader entering the weekend, also encountered difficulties during a goalless Halloween. The reigning champions lost 1-0 at home to Brighton & Hove Albion, who took an early lead through Yasin Ayari. This result came as Brighton avenged a recent League Cup defeat to City, further disrupting the champions’ attempt to rebound after a prior loss to Aston Villa ended their perfect start to the season.
The league standings remained tightly contested, with City and Arsenal both holding 21 points, Brighton close behind on 19, and Chelsea sitting fourth with 16 points. Arsenal had the opportunity to claim the top spot with a match against Liverpool scheduled for Sunday.
Elsewhere, Coventry City climbed out of the relegation zone thanks to goals from Tatsuhiro Sakamoto, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Jack Rudoni in a 3-1 home victory over Sunderland, which remains at the bottom of the table. Bournemouth secured seventh place after a 2-0 win against Leeds United, with Evanilson scoring his fourth consecutive league goal. Nottingham Forest’s struggles continued under new manager Oliver Glasner as they fell to Brentford, extending their winless run to five matches.
Among promoted sides, Hull City and Ipswich Town shared points in a 2-2 draw at Hull. In a late fixture, Aston Villa drew 1-1 with Fulham at home after goalkeeper Zion Suzuki conceded an own goal from a corner.