That is according to pundit and Red Devils legend Gary Neville.
The former United right-back won eight Premier League titles with the club.
But since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, United have struggled to qualify for Europe, let alone challenge for the league.
However, Jose Mourinho has brought about a huge change at the club.
And Neville believes his old club will go close this season.
"There's consistency, definitely," he told ESPN.
"There's strength, there's power, they're tough to beat, there are a lot of very good things.
"This season will be a big challenge to win the league, City are looking fantastic.
"But there's something there that tells me they are capable of winning the league, and I've not seen that for the last three or four years. I've not seen a team capable of challenging, let alone winning it.
"What I'm seeing now is a team that's consistent, a team that's hard to beat, that defends well and has got goals in it, so it's got all the credentials."
United are two points behind neighbours Manchester City, who are in insatiable form at present.
And Neville agrees with many that it may be a battle of the two Manchester clubs for the Premier League crown come the business end of the season.
"They look like the two. I love watching Tottenham, but have they got the depth to challenge United and City this season? I'm not sure," he added.
"Arsenal? No. Chelsea look like they're in a difficult moment and Liverpool are not quite there, either. So it is United and City.
"At the moment, City are looking in the better form but United have got the maturity and I'm sure they will get through the winter months well, which can be key."
United take on Huddersfield Town this weekend.
