Yes true. We can even say that their defeat in the FA Cup gives them a very good advantage for their forward fixtures. That's why they don't want to compress their main squad with the matches of the FA Cup. That's why regular defeats might work for these teams. This is a long standing system. Maybe there can be such a surprise in the Manchester City-Fulham game today.
I don't think it's luck for Manchester, because after all a big team is required to be able to get every trophy there is, even though the FA trophy is not very prestigious but the trophy should be an achievement for Rangnick at the end of the season, indeed now Manchester is still have hope in champions league but their journey to win a trophy in the champions league is not an easy thing, besides that manchester lowered its main squad against middlesbrough, but instead they suffered a defeat, then how can they be favorites when facing tough teams in the premier league and league champions later?
I don’t think it’s true that Manchester United wanted an exit, or this loss is a blessing in disguise because this loss is yet another reminder that things under Rangnick aren’t working that great, and losing player’s like Martial and Van De Beek isn’t looking good for the team. Lastly I believe that
Pogba can help us secure a top 4 finish, if he remains fit then I feel there’s a slim chance that Manchester United will make it to champions league next season.
Even though it is weak for Manchester United to finish the league in the necessary order for the champions league, it should not be forgotten that this is football. A sport open to all possibilities. When you least expect it, Manchester United can get very good wins and go to the top. Arsenal is the strongest opponent they will fight to be in the place they need for the champions league. If they beat them, they could place fourth and be in the champions league.