Manchester United produced another dramatic comeback at Old Trafford on Sunday, scoring twice in stoppage time to rescue a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, but the result failed to hide the growing crisis surrounding the club.

The point gained from the thrilling encounter offered a moment of relief for under-pressure manager Michael Carrick, yet United remain stuck in the relegation zone after 10 Premier League matches, with their defensive struggles continuing to raise serious concerns.

Villa stunned the home crowd by racing into a two-goal lead inside the opening four minutes, as Alysson opened the scoring before Nicolas Jackson doubled the advantage after Manchester United failed to deal with early pressure.

However, United responded with character and reduced the deficit through Bruno Fernandes, who converted from the penalty spot after Matheus Cunha was brought down inside the box.

The momentum shifted towards the hosts as they pushed forward in search of an equaliser, and Youri Tielemans restored parity before half-time to complete a remarkable first-half turnaround.

But United’s defensive problems returned immediately after the break. Diogo Dalot conceded a penalty after bringing down Alysson, allowing John McGinn to put Villa back in front from the spot.

The visitors extended their advantage again when Leon Goretzka capitalised on another defensive error to make it 4-2, leaving United facing another damaging defeat.

The result appeared beyond reach, especially with United’s defence already struggling this season. The club have conceded more goals than any other team among Europe’s major leagues across all competitions, highlighting the scale of their problems.

Yet, just as they did in their previous comeback victory against Roma, United refused to surrender.

Substitute Joshua Zirkzee gave the home supporters renewed hope when he pulled one back in the 92nd minute, before Patrick Dorgu completed an incredible late escape by heading in the equaliser after Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki failed to deal with a final corner.

The dramatic finish rescued a point for United but also exposed the uncertainty surrounding a team that has struggled for consistency and remains without a Premier League victory since August.

For Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, the collapse was painful, as his side appeared destined to claim a crucial away win before losing control in the final moments.

Emery admitted his frustration after the match, saying: “Angry, of course. To accept to lose in the last minutes two goals, it is difficult.”

Despite the fighting spirit shown by United, their defensive weaknesses remain a major concern as they continue their battle to escape the relegation zone.

The Old Trafford comeback may have saved them from another defeat, but it also served as a reminder that Manchester United’s problems run much deeper than one dramatic night.