Manchester United will host Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday, as Ruben Amorim’s side aims for a second consecutive victory at home in the Premier League. The Red Devils come into the match fresh from a dramatic 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday, while Everton’s struggles continued last weekend in a goalless draw with 10-man Brentford.
Amorim’s reign at Manchester United has been marked by a strong home performance, with his side winning five of their last six matches at Old Trafford across all competitions. This includes an exciting 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt, where Rasmus Hojlund’s brace ensured a thrilling European success. Despite some early hiccups, such as a 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town that marked the beginning of the new era, Manchester United has shown an ability to bounce back in front of their home supporters.
In the Premier League, however, Manchester United has struggled to consistently find their rhythm, sitting in a modest 12th place. They have scored just 13 goals and conceded the same number, making their matches the least eventful in terms of goals in the entire league. Despite their struggles in the league, the gap to the top six is a narrow three points, suggesting that with a few victories, they could quickly climb up the table. Their record at Old Trafford has provided some relief, with multiple goals scored in each of their recent wins, signaling that they can still be a potent force when performing on home turf.
Everton, under the management of Sean Dyche, has had a tough time in recent weeks, particularly in attack. The Toffees have failed to score in their last three Premier League matches, losing to Southampton and West Ham United, and drawing with Brentford despite having a numerical advantage in the second half. The lack of goals has been a persistent issue for Dyche’s side, and they find themselves in a precarious position in 15th place, just two points above the relegation zone. Their inability to make the most of key opportunities, such as the one they had against Brentford, highlights the challenges Everton faces in breaking down opposing defenses.
The Toffees’ recent form has left them in danger of falling into the relegation battle. They have not won a Premier League match since their 1-0 victory over Ipswich in October, leaving them four points adrift of the teams directly above them. Everton has struggled to create and convert chances, which has put additional pressure on Dyche to find solutions. If they are to come away with anything from Old Trafford, it would be a major boost, particularly given their recent goal-scoring drought.
Manchester United and Everton have a history of low-scoring affairs, but the Red Devils have been dominant in recent meetings. United has won their last five encounters with Everton, including a 5-0 aggregate scoreline over two league matches last season. The last goalless draw between these two sides came back in 2009 during an FA Cup match, and it is highly unlikely that either side will want to replicate such a result this time around, given both teams’ recent struggles in front of goal.
For United, Amorim will be hoping to continue their strong home form, with key players like Hojlund and Bruno Fernandes looking to make an impact. The manager’s attacking style and focus on early goals have been apparent in recent performances, and they will look to exploit an Everton defense that has been leaky at times this season. For Everton, Dyche will need to find a way to spark his side’s attack, with players such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Garner tasked with providing the necessary creativity and finishing to break down the United defense.
Ultimately, this match appears to be one of contrasting fortunes. Manchester United, despite their inconsistencies, will be favorites to secure another home win, while Everton will need to show significant improvement in attack if they are to avoid another disappointing result. The Red Devils’ recent dominance over the Toffees gives them the edge, and they will be confident in their ability to keep that record intact, but Dyche’s Everton will be desperate to end their scoring drought and get back on track in what promises to be a tense encounter.
