Former Manchester United striker, Andy Cole, has reflected on a time when Arsenal’s fourth-place finishes were celebrated while United dominated the league.

With the upcoming clash between the two teams at Old Trafford on Sunday, Cole has highlighted the significant shift in fortunes, with United’s recent struggles contrasting sharply with their historical success.

Speaking about United’s tradition of winning and contending for Major Honors, Cole expressed concern about the prolonged period of decline and emphasized the need for an honest assessment of the club’s current state.

He remarked (as reported by the Mirror): “Arsenal used to finish fourth and celebrate like they’d won the league. We used to chuckle at them, but now we find ourselves in a similar position. It’s undoubtedly challenging.

“It’s challenging because I never envisaged United being in this position, to be brutally honest. The teams I was part of left a legacy for players aspiring to join the club, to emulate us and achieve similar success. Sometimes when I look at the current team – and past teams – it’s perplexing because understanding what United stands for is crucial.

“It’s about winning, competing, and striving for major honors, especially in domestic competitions. But currently, we are falling short.”