Fair play, MU leads the Premier League

According to recent statistics, Manchester United is the fairest team in the Premier League, having received only 3 yellow cards since the start of the season.

The match between Manchester United and Chelsea last weekend sparked controversy when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was sent off after just 5 minutes, while Casemiro from the Red Devils was also dismissed following two yellow cards. Despite the notable send-offs, the latest data shows Man Utd is actually one of the most disciplined teams in the Premier League this season.

After 5 rounds, Bournemouth leads in yellow cards with 14, averaging nearly 3 per game. They are followed by Crystal Palace and Brighton (13 yellow cards each). Chelsea, Everton, Fulham, and Liverpool also appear in the top group with double-digit yellow card counts.

The reigning champions Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, are known for their ball control and "clean" play style, and this season they continue to maintain that reputation. They have only received 7 yellow cards, ranking 13th among the "toughest" teams, a modest number compared to those at the top.

Surprisingly, Manchester United, despite having Casemiro sent off, ranks last with only 3 yellow cards. By this count, the Red Devils are currently the "cleanest" team in the Premier League. This marks a significant change from last season, when United was 12th in the ranking of teams with the most yellow cards.

The sharp decrease in Man Utd’s fouls partly reflects the influence of coach Ruben Amorim. Although the team's ball possession rate is lower than before, his players remain calm and minimize dangerous fouls. This could be a positive sign showing the Red Devils are gradually adopting a new philosophy without resorting to the "desperate style" they used previously.

As for Man City, discipline is nothing new. Guardiola has spent many years building a team that controls the game and commits fewer fouls to avoid cards. Remaining among the "cleanest" clubs reinforces this image, despite the 2025/26 season start not being particularly explosive.