After a bad 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace, Man Utd could miss out on European qualification, leaving them in eighth place in the Premier League.
Michael Olise scored twice and Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell also scored, showing that Crystal Palace continue to improve under new manager Oliver Glasner.
It seems that a change in leadership might be necessary at Old Trafford, as Erik ten Hag has been unable to stop a decline in his second season as manager.
Since the 1989-90 season, United have only missed out on European competition once.
This happened when they finished seventh in David Moyes' only season, which led to Moyes being sacked before the end of the season.
United have never finished lower than seventh in the Premier League era, but they are now facing that possibility, especially with a match against Arsenal on Sunday.
Ten Hag has often mentioned injury issues as a reason for his team's poor performance.
The Dutchman had to create a makeshift defense, with Casemiro playing out of position at centre-back alongside 36-year-old Jonny Evans.
Captain Bruno Fernandes missed a game due to injury for the first time in his career, but this does not excuse the lack of effort or quality shown by the team.
United's only recent Premier League win was against relegated Sheffield United, highlighting their struggles.
Under former Eintracht Frankfurt boss Glasner, Palace has gone undefeated in their last five matches, showing progress.
If Crystal Palace wants to improve further next season, they will need to fend off interest in players like Olise and Eberechi Eze.
Olise, who has attracted interest from several clubs, including United, Manchester City, and Chelsea, demonstrated his skills by scoring a goal against United.
Man Utd did not manage to get a single shot on target in the first half, but they were unlucky not to score against the run of play.
Casemiro's header was disallowed after a collision with the Palace goalkeeper, which was considered a push.
Palace deserved their two-goal lead at halftime due to their dominance.
Mateta, who has been in great form under Glasner, scored his ninth goal in 11 games after easily getting past Evans.
There was no comeback from United after halftime, which could be a decisive factor in the club's new leadership evaluating Ten Hag's future.
Onana made some impressive saves to keep the score down briefly, but he couldn't prevent Mitchell from scoring.
United's defense was exposed from a set-piece, leading to a rare goal from Mitchell.
Onana was unable to stop Olise's powerful shot, adding to United's margin of defeat.
This heavy defeat worsened United's goal difference, reflecting a disappointing season for the 20-time English champions.
Ten Hag's last chance at redemption could be the FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25, if he remains in charge until then.
However, considering this proof, United supporters will be worried that City, who are trying to win two championships, might dominate at Wembley and cause the worst embarrassment.
AFP
