After a disappointing week for Michael Carrick's Manchester United, losing to both Manchester City and Brighton, they have the chance to get back on track as they prepare to face Fulham on Sunday. 

United lost 3-2 to Brighton on Wednesday after going up 2-0 in the first 10 minutes. The result saw them eliminated from the Carabao Cup at the first time of asking once again, adding a little bit of pressure to Carrick's position. Coming just days after an embarrassing derby defeat to 10-man Man City, the mood around United is now one of frustration and worry.

Sunday's match is a chance to get back to winning ways and to raise optimism before a long international break. United's schedule after that is packed, with tough Champions League games and huge league matches, especially after their poor start. 

Fulham are yet to win a Premier League match this season but could fancy their chances against this struggling United side. Alvaro Arbeloa has tried to incorporate an exciting style of play, but his team have taken lots of risks and struggled to control games so far.

However, they were more impressive last time out as they held Liverpool to a 0-0 draw at Anfield. In addition, they also defeated West Ham in their Carabao Cup fixture, so their confidence will be much stronger than it was in recent weeks.

In his pre-match press conference, Arbeloa acknowledged the pressure on the current United boss, as well as admitting he was under pressure himself.

"Every Premier League manager is under pressure," Arbeloa said. "It's not because [of] what comes from outside, it's because you have to be really demanding of yourself. All the managers want to win every weekend.

"For sure, when you are a coach of a big team you are always under pressure, but same for me because I need to win games. Both teams will want to win the game on Sunday, so it's going to be a good battle."

Although United have started the season in poor form, Arbeloa labelled them still as one of the best teams in the world. He insisted his team have to be at their "best level, the same level we saw at Anfield."

"We are facing one of the best teams in the world and we know that and we need to be ready," Arbeloa added.

The match is a must-win for both teams, but certainly for Manchester United. Carrick's side currently has just four points from four games and has not looked convincing at all.

The pressure on Carrick was inevitable, and it has already begun to build. The transfer window was not at the level required, and it is fair to say Manchester United have left the manager short. He must take responsibility for his team's performances, and he has, but this situation is not entirely on him. 

Failure to win at Craven Cottage on Sunday would really harm the situation, especially with an extended international break around the corner. Arbeloa's words are true, but the standards at Manchester United have to be different to anywhere else.

Changing the manager again will not help the situation, at least in the long-term. Instead, those above need to be held accountable too. But Carrick's job security already feels like it is slightly dwindling, and this is not good for this team in what is a huge season for them.

Fulham will be another tough test. Although their record may not show it, they have been impressive in moments this season and have some exciting young talent in attack. The match could suit United better, however, with spaces in the middle and in behind. A win would be huge for Carrick, but another loss could be catastrophic.