Manchester United’s Struggles
Under new manager Ruben Amorim, Manchester United have faced a challenging period, losing their last three matches across all competitions. This slump has seen them drop to 14th place in the Premier League standings. The team’s defensive frailties have been particularly concerning, with a significant proportion of goals conceded from set pieces. Amorim has acknowledged the need for his players to develop greater tactical awareness to address these issues.
Compounding their difficulties, Manchester United will be without key players for this fixture. Captain Bruno Fernandes is suspended following a red card received in the recent defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, marking his third dismissal of the season. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte is also unavailable due to yellow card accumulation. These absences are likely to result in Casemiro returning to the starting lineup, with Alejandro Garnacho expected to feature in the attacking midfield role.
Newcastle United’s Resurgence
In stark contrast, Newcastle United arrive at Old Trafford in impressive form. Eddie Howe’s side has secured four consecutive victories across all competitions, including dominant performances in their last three Premier League matches, where they have scored 11 goals without conceding. This resurgence has propelled them to seventh place in the league, positioning them as strong contenders for European qualification.
Key players such as Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon have been instrumental in Newcastle’s attacking prowess, while the midfield trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton has provided stability and creativity. Defensively, despite the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope due to injury, the team has maintained solidity, with Martin Dubravka stepping in effectively.
Head-to-Head and Tactical Outlook
Historically, Manchester United have held the upper hand in home fixtures against Newcastle. However, recent encounters have been more balanced, with Newcastle winning three of the last four meetings between the two sides. The most recent clash in May saw Manchester United edge a 3-2 victory, with Rasmus Hojlund scoring the decisive goal.
Tactically, Manchester United are expected to adopt a 3-4-2-1 formation, aiming to bolster their defensive structure while utilizing wing-backs to provide width. The absence of Fernandes will necessitate a creative spark from alternative sources, potentially placing additional responsibility on Amad Diallo and Garnacho to support striker Rasmus Hojlund.
Newcastle are likely to continue with their effective 4-3-3 setup, emphasizing a high-pressing game and quick transitions. The fitness of full-backs Valentino Livramento and Kieran Trippier remains a concern, but their midfield and attacking units are expected to pose significant challenges to Manchester United’s defence.
Prediction
Given the contrasting form of both teams, Newcastle United enter this fixture as favourites. Manchester United’s defensive vulnerabilities and the absence of key players may further tilt the balance in favour of the visitors. A victory for Newcastle appears a realistic outcome with star striker Alexander Isak being the main threat to United. A defeat for Manchester United may well exacerbate the pressure on Ruben Amorim and his squad as they seek to reverse their fortunes in the second half of the season.
Tip: Alexander Isak 2+ Shots on Target