Manchester United will hope to finish a tough year on a high as they host an in-form Newcastle at Old Trafford. With contrasting fortunes this season, both teams will aim to assert their dominance in this highly anticipated encounter.
Manchester United Recent Form
The Red Devils are enduring a poor run, sitting 14th in the Premier League. They have lost their last three matches against Tottenham, Bournemouth, and Wolves.
Despite a morale-boosting Manchester derby victory earlier in December, inconsistency and a lack of defensive stability have seen them slide down the table.
Injury and Team News
Manchester United are without Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte due to suspension.
Marcus Rashford remains sidelined, and with Victor Lindelof, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw still recovering, manager Ruben Amorim faces selection challenges. Alejandro Garnacho could make a start in a revamped attack.
Last Manchester United Lineup
Manchester United's previous XI:
Newcastle Recent Form
Newcastle are flying high, winning their last three league games with clean sheets, including a commanding 3-0 win over Aston Villa.
They are fifth in the table and just five points from the Champions League spots. The Magpies have demonstrated offensive qualities this season, with Alexander Isak leading their goal tally.
Injury and Team News
Newcastle will be missing Callum Wilson, Jamaal Lascelles, Nick Pope, and Sven Botman, but Tino Livramento is set to return from illness.
Kieran Trippier could be rested, with Livramento likely to start. Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon are expected to continue in supporting roles to Alexander Isak.
Last Newcastle Lineup
Newcastle's previous XI:
Manchester United vs Newcastle - Who is the referee and VAR?
Referee: Simon Hooper (pictured).
Assistants: Adrian Holmes, Simon Long.
Fourth official: Andy Madley.
VAR: Paul Tierney.
Assistant VAR: Constantine Hatzidakis.
Manchester United Player to Watch
Alejandro Garnacho: The young Argentine forward has the creativity and pace to unsettle Newcastle’s defence. With a likely starting role, Garnacho could be a difference-maker.
Newcastle Player to Watch
Alexander Isak: Newcastle’s top scorer this season, Isak's intelligent movement and clinical finishing make him a constant threat.
Prediction
The Red Devils' strong home record against Newcastle contrasts with the visitors' red-hot form. A high-scoring draw seems likely, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess.
Our Prediction: Manchester United 2-2 Newcastle
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score - Manchester United’s shaky defence and Newcastle’s attacking form make this a safe bet.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals - Expect goals from both sides as they look to dominate the match.
Tip 3
Alexander Isak to Score Anytime - With his goal-scoring streak, Isak is a reliable pick.
