Manchester United hope to return to winning ways when they take on Aston Villa at Old Trafford this afternoon.
Michael Carrick’s unbeaten run finally came to an end against Newcastle United last time out but his side remain firmly in the battle for a top five finish along with today’s opponents.
United were flat and undercooked on Tyneside with their light schedule seemingly impacting their performances.
While Villa are not in great form themselves, coming off dismal league defeats to Chelsea and Wolves, Unai Emery’s side can punish another slow start today.
Metro’s LIVE matchday blog will bring you all the build-up, confirmed team news and starting XIs, goal updates and minute-by-minute coverage.
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March 15, 2026 12:38 pm
How’s the Premier League table looking?
Louis Sealey
A reminder of how the top-end of the Premier League table looks ahead of Villa’s trip to United.
Arsenal appear to be storming to their first league title since 2004, moving nine points clear of stuttering Manchester City.
Manchester United are a further ten points back in third, level on points with fourth-placed Aston Villa.
Manchester United v Aston Villa - Premier League
Gary Neville at Old Trafford this afternoon (Picture: Getty)
Chelsea and Liverpool aren’t far behind in fifth and sixth respectively.
The Premier League is still expected to be given five spots in next season’s Champions League despite the English club’s poor showing in Europe last week.
But Manchester United and Aston Villa will both still be desperate to put their Champions League qualification beyond doubt by finishing in the top-four.
Premier League top-five race
Arsenal – 70
Manchester City – 61
Manchester United – 51
Aston Villa – 51
Chelsea – 48
Liverpool – 48
March 15, 2026 12:31 pm
Louis Sealey
Good afternoon and welcome to Metro’s live blog for a crucial game in the battle for Champions League football as Manchester United face Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
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