Manchester United suffered their seventh defeat of the Premier League campaign on Saturday, losing 3-0 to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Just three days after it appeared as though they had turned a corner with a spirited 2-1 triumph over Chelsea, United came crashing back down to earth, being humbled by a Bournemouth team that had never previously tasted victory in M16.
Goals from Dominic Solanke, Philip Billing and Marcos Senesi secured a well-deserved win for the Cherries. As a result, United, though they have remained sixth following the conclusion of the weekend's action, are now six points shy of the top four.
They also have a negative goal difference. READ MORE: United open to selling five players in January window READ MORE: Erik ten Hag must face uncomfortable truth amid his United squad criticism Their ongoing struggles, which could worsen when they face Liverpool this coming weekend, means their chances of securing Champions League football for next season via the top four are decreasing.