It is indeed too late for Man United to realize their ambition of finishing in the top four of the standings. Defeat by Fulham at Old Trafford in week 26, then continuing to be defeated by Man City in week 27, marks Man United chances of reaching the League Champions zone has finished. It's true that the difference in points is still very likely to be reduced, but I haven't seen any signs of a significant improvement in performance within the Ten Hag squad. The victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup cannot be used as a complete reference for Man United next match.
Manchester United team is now 9 points behind Aston Villa. However, Manchester United may have a slim chance of finishing in the top four if United's overall performance remains stable. But Manchester United's performance is still weak and erratic. Manchester United have lost two of their last three matches. Such an erratic performance will not be able to close the gap of 9 points with Aston Villa.
Manchester United are not consistent in their performance and Aston Villa manager really mean the Champions league zone and they will do anything to get that ticket, am even surprised when you are taking of Manchester United what about Tottenham Hotspur that are closer in time of getting the tickets, i don't see any hope for Manchester United for securing that position, they are six points away from that place, if Manchester United play their 29th match and win the point will reduce to three points and if Tottenham win too and have many goals they will have the same point and also take that position because of the goals different, right now i will say fourth place is for three teams which are Aston Villa, Tottenham and Manchester United, let see who win it finally.