Manchester United has the worst defensive line in European football!

Manchester United's defensive problems have deepened after Opta's latest data showed they have conceded 30 goals in all competitions, the worst record among clubs in Europe's top five leagues.

Villa draw exposed the issue

The 4-4 draw with Aston Villa at Old Trafford was the latest example. United fell two goals behind twice, but late goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Patrick Dorgu rescued a point after they had conceded four again.

United have shipped 15 goals in the Premier League, 11 in the Champions League and four in the League Cup, with only one clean sheet in their first 15 competitive matches of the season.

Individual errors, a lack of coordination between defenders and poor management of key moments have all cost points. Even when the attack has dragged the team back into games, the back line has not allowed them to finish matches with control.

Carrick has time to reset

Michael Carrick now has the international break to work on the team's structure. If the pattern continues, United's bid to move back towards the leading pack will be affected by goals against before anything else.