Get ready for an electrifying Premier League match this Sunday as Manchester United host Bournemouth at Old Trafford. With both teams eager to secure crucial points, this showdown promises to be a thrilling encounter. Here’s your ultimate guide to the game.
Why This Match Matters
Manchester United, currently sitting 13th on the table, is looking to bounce back from a heartbreaking Carabao Cup exit against Tottenham. With their focus now on climbing the Premier League standings, every game is a must-win.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth has been the league’s surprise package, climbing to sixth place with an unbeaten streak. Known for their giant-killing performances this season, the Cherries have their sights set on continuing their European football dream.
Key Match Information
- Match Date: Sunday, December 22, 2024
- Kick-off Time: 14:00 GMT / 09:00 ET / 06:00 PT / 20:30 IST
- Location: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
- Referee: Craig Pawson
- VAR: Darren England
Recent Form: Tale of Two Teams
Manchester United:
- Tottenham 4-3 Man Utd (Dec 19, 2024)
- Man City 1-2 Man Utd (Dec 15, 2024)
- Viktoria Plzen 1-2 Man Utd (Dec 12, 2024)
- Nottingham Forest 3-2 Man Utd (Dec 7, 2024)
Bournemouth:
- Bournemouth 1-1 West Ham (Dec 16, 2024)
- Ipswich Town 1-2 Bournemouth (Dec 8, 2024)
- Bournemouth 1-0 Tottenham (Dec 5, 2024)
- Wolves 2-4 Bournemouth (Nov 30, 2024)
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Onana
- Defenders: De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez
- Midfielders: Mazraoui, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot
- Attackers: Amad, Fernandes
- Striker: Zirkzee
Bournemouth (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Kepa
- Defenders: Smith, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez
- Midfielders: Adams, Christie
- Attackers: Semenyo, Kluivert, Ouattara
- Striker: Unal
Players to Watch
- Marcus Rashford (Man Utd): A potential return to the squad could inject much-needed firepower into United’s attack.
- Enes Unal (Bournemouth): Fresh off a stunning goal against West Ham, Unal’s form will be critical for the Cherries.
- Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd): The creative heartbeat of United’s midfield, Fernandes’ contributions will be pivotal.
Score Prediction
While Manchester United boasts home advantage, their inconsistency under Ruben Amorim leaves room for uncertainty. Bournemouth’s disciplined and direct approach could expose United’s vulnerabilities, setting the stage for a closely contested match.
Prediction: Man Utd 1-1 Bournemouth
How to Watch
- United Kingdom: Live radio commentary available on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra.
- United States: Watch on Peacock.
- Canada: Stream on fuboTV Canada.
- India: Disney+ Hotstar, Star Sports
This Man Utd vs Bournemouth clash is shaping up to be a gripping battle of tactics and form. Will the Red Devils find their stride, or will the Cherries continue their fairy-tale run? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
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