Manchester United’s attacking struggles are raising serious concerns after a summer of significant investment. A 1-1 draw with Fulham followed an opening defeat at Arsenal, leaving United with only one goal from open play in four games since their pre-season trip to the United States. For a club that spent £200m on attacking reinforcements, these early weeks have not been convincing.

The £74m arrival of Benjamin Sesko was meant to transform United’s frontline, yet the Slovenian striker is still finding his rhythm. Having joined on 9 August, he has only managed two substitute appearances, totalling just over an hour of football. United boss Ruben Amorim highlighted the timing of his introduction at Fulham, saying the team were already defending their lead rather than playing with freedom.

Matheus Cunha, another major addition, almost lit up Craven Cottage with a stunning attempt after controlling Altay Bayindir’s long pass, but Bernd Leno denied him. The Brazilian also struck the post in a lively performance, suggesting a breakthrough is imminent. Bryan Mbeumo has shown promise too, although Fulham’s Antonee Robinson’s pace thwarted his late surge on goal. Despite individual quality, United’s forward line feels disjointed, more a collection of talented individuals than a cohesive unit.

Statistically, United are creating opportunities but not converting them. Their expected goals (xG) stood at 1.52 against Arsenal and 1.62 against Fulham, yet neither game produced a goal from open play. Across those two matches, United registered 32 shots, but their only goal came via Fulham forward Rodrigo Muniz’s own goal. As Fulham manager Marco Silva noted: “In the second half, their best chances were set-pieces, nothing more.”

This blunt edge is not what Amorim anticipated after reshaping his squad to avoid last season’s failings. United scored just 44 league goals in 2023-24, their lowest tally since 1973-74, and the board responded with significant attacking investment. Amorim remains optimistic, stating: “We are going to score goals because we are creating so many chances. That is the important thing.” However, with no European football this season, the pressure is on United to use the long training gaps to forge understanding and deliver results.

United’s issues were compounded when captain Bruno Fernandes missed a crucial penalty at Fulham. VAR intervened to award the spot-kick, but Fernandes admitted his concentration was affected after referee Chris Kavanagh collided with him during his run-up. “I was upset because the referee didn’t apologise. That is what triggered me in the moment,” Fernandes said. “But it is not an excuse for missing the penalty. I had a bad hit on the ball.”

As United prepare to face Burnley, Amorim knows victory and goals from his new-look frontline are essential to ease mounting scrutiny. Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo combined for 58 goals at club level last season, and United fans are desperate to see that firepower translate to the Premier League before this sluggish start turns into something more damaging.