Manchester United head into the game in mixed form, sitting sixth in the table and aiming to build on their recent 4-1 win over Wolves. Under new management, the Red Devils have shown attacking spark, with Bruno Fernandes and the in-form Amad Diallo key to their creative play. However, defensive issues and an inability to sustain performances across the full 90 minutes continue to worry manager Ruben Amorim.
AFC Bournemouth, currently 13th, have hit a rough patch and remain winless in their last six league matches. Even so, the Cherries have caused United problems in recent seasons, claiming eye-catching 3-0 victories on their last two visits to Old Trafford.
Their high-energy pressing and rapid counter-attacks could pose real questions for United’s midfield and defence. United will miss injured defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, while striker Benjamin Sesko remains a doubt.
The match sets up as a clash of differing momentum and a clear test of United’s ability to break down a stubborn side desperate to end their winless run. The Red Devils need to start sharply and take their chances if they want all three points and to keep their push for a European spot alive.
Predicted 3-4-2-1 starting lineup
Amorim will likely stick to his 3-4-2-1 formation yet again, and Senne Lammens should be the undisputed starter in goal.
The back three is likely to consist of Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, and Luke Shaw. This backline will have to play an important role to stop the pacey counterattacks from players like Antoine Semenyo.
The back-line will have to play an important role to stop the pacey counterattacks from players like Antoine Semenyo. Meanwhile, Amorim will likely again use Amad Diallo as the right wingback, who has been in sublime form of late, and Diogo Dalot as the left wingback. Both players will have to provide attacking width along with the defensive cover.
We will likely see the duo of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes taking over the engine room yet again, and both of these players will have to play an integral role in dictating the tempo with which United will play. Meanwhile, Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount will likely play as the attacking midfielders behind the lone striker, Matheus Cunha. This fluid attacking quartet has the potential to cause significant problems for the Bournemouth defence.
Predicted Manchester United XI (3-4-2-1): Lammens; Mazraoui, Yoro, Shaw; Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Cunha
Manchester United
Manchester United’s Predicted Starting Lineup against AFC Bournemouth
Head-To-Head stats:
If we look at the head-to-head statistics, the Red Devils hold an upper hand over their rivals. United have won 13 out of the 19 meetings between the two teams in all competitions, while Bournemouth have won just four, and two matches have ended in a draw. However, it will not be an easy game for United, but Ruben Amorim’s side is still expected to get a narrow 2-1 win at home and push for a European spot.