Manchester United will look to bounce back from a dramatic EFL Cup exit when they face Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday in the Premier League. After a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup, Manchester United will be eager to redeem themselves and gain crucial points in the league.
The Red Devils came agonizingly close to completing a remarkable comeback in their midweek cup clash. Trailing 3-0 to Spurs, two errors from goalkeeper Fraser Forster handed United a lifeline, but a last-minute header from Jonny Evans was not enough to complete the comeback. Despite the setback, manager Ruben Amorim remains optimistic after a strong 2-1 win over Manchester City last weekend, although United’s league position remains disappointing. They currently sit 13th, just two points above the relegation zone and seven points behind the Champions League spots.
For United, a win against Bournemouth is vital to avoid spending Christmas in the bottom half of the table for the first time in Premier League history. Amorim’s side has been potent in attack, scoring at least two goals in each of their last five home matches in all competitions, which bodes well for their upcoming fixture.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, comes into the game with a solid run of form. Andoni Iraola’s side extended their unbeaten streak to four matches in the Premier League, despite a 1-1 draw against West Ham United in their last outing. Enes Unal’s stunning last-minute free kick salvaged a point for the Cherries after Lucas Paqueta had given West Ham the lead from the penalty spot. The draw brought an end to Bournemouth’s three-match winning streak, but they remain in a strong position, sitting sixth in the table, just two points behind Manchester City.
Bournemouth’s attacking philosophy has been one of the key features of their season, with the Cherries registering the second-most shots in the Premier League this campaign, behind only Manchester City. Their free-scoring nature will be on display again as they aim for a third consecutive away win, a feat they have not achieved since December 2023. Interestingly, Bournemouth has already beaten Manchester United twice in their last two visits to Old Trafford, including a 3-0 victory last December.
Team News
Manchester United’s squad for the match remains uncertain, with several key players dealing with injuries or fitness issues. Marcus Rashford, who was absent from the squad for the Tottenham game due to ongoing transfer speculation, remains a doubt for Sunday’s fixture. The English winger has publicly expressed his desire to leave the club, but Amorim has left the door open for a potential return. United will also be without Luke Shaw (calf) and Mason Mount (leg), while Victor Lindelof faces an injury concern after limping off against Spurs. Matthijs de Ligt missed the midweek match due to illness and is also a doubt for the Bournemouth clash.
On the other hand, Bournemouth has no new injury concerns following their 1-1 draw with West Ham. However, they will still be without five players for the trip to Old Trafford. Luis Sinisterra, Alex Scott, Julian Araujo, Marcos Senesi, and Marcus Tavernier all remain sidelined due to various injuries. Sinisterra, however, could be available for selection before the year ends.
Possible Lineups
Manchester United will likely field a 4-3-3 formation, with Andre Onana in goal. The defense could feature a backline of Hiroki Yoro, Harry Maguire, and Lisandro Martinez, with Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo providing width. In midfield, United could line up with Moisés Caicedo, Hannibal Mejbri, and Bruno Fernandes, while Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund will look to provide the attacking threat alongside Fernandes.
Bournemouth, in a 4-3-3 setup, will have Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal. The defense is expected to consist of Adam Smith, Illya Zabarnyi, Leandro Huijsen, and Milos Kerkez. In midfield, Philip Billing, Ryan Christie, and Marcus Cook will look to control the game, while the attacking trio of Jaidon Anthony, Justin Kluivert, and Dango Ouattara will support Enes Unal, who has been in excellent form, scoring in back-to-back matches.
Prediction
Manchester United will be under pressure to secure a win, especially after their recent struggles in the league. Their attacking form at home gives them an edge, but Bournemouth’s strong away performances and free-scoring attack make them dangerous opponents. With both teams having injury concerns and key players missing, it could be a closely contested match. However, given their superior attacking depth, Manchester United is likely to edge this encounter, securing a 2-1 victory to move closer to the top half of the table.
