Team News
Manchester United remain without several key players as they prepare to take on Newcastle in midweek. Luke Shaw (muscle), Amad Diallo (knee), Tyrell Malacia (knee), and Lisandro Martinez (foot) are all sidelined, while Jadon Sancho’s absence from the squad continues, marking two months since his ostracisation from the main group. Casemiro and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were both unavailable for the Manchester derby but could be in contention for the Newcastle clash, depending on their recovery. Erik ten Hag may look to rotate his underperforming squad, with players like Raphael Varane, Sergio Reguilon, Mason Mount, Alejandro Garnacho, and the recently fit-again Kobbie Mainoo offering alternatives. Meanwhile, despite some recent struggles, it appears that Andre Onana will keep his place between the sticks ahead of Altay Bayindir.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are now without Sandro Tonali, whose 10-month ban for betting breaches has officially begun, ruling him out until August. The Magpies also face a raft of injuries, with Harvey Barnes (ankle), Elliot Anderson (back), Jacob Murphy (shoulder), Lewis Miley (illness), and Alexander Isak (groin) all sidelined. Sven Botman (knee) is also set to miss out. Eddie Howe could turn to Tino Livramento, Matt Targett, and Joe Willock – who scored against United last season – to make an impact.
Form Guide
Manchester United’s victory over Newcastle in last season’s EFL Cup final seems like a distant memory, with the Red Devils’ form having nosedived since that triumphant day at Wembley. Their most recent outing – a 3-0 drubbing by Manchester City in Sunday’s derby – was a stark reminder of their current struggles. Despite a promising opening few minutes, United were dismantled by an Erling Haaland double and a late Phil Foden strike, leaving fans frustrated and jeering at the final whistle.
Before their humbling against City, Ten Hag’s side had managed three consecutive victories, although performances against Brentford, Copenhagen, and Sheffield United were far from convincing. A rare exception came in their 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace in the third round of the EFL Cup. United will be aiming to continue their strong run in this competition, having advanced from each of their last five fourth-round ties. However, after their seventh defeat of the season – and a historically poor start to their Premier League campaign – some fans are already fearing an early exit from the tournament at the hands of Newcastle. In contrast, Newcastle come into this clash off the back of a major triumph in the previous round, where they knocked out European champions Manchester City. That victory, which featured a decisive goal from Alexander Isak, was part of an impressive run for the Magpies, including an 8-0 demolition of Sheffield United and a commanding win over Paris Saint-Germain. Yet, Howe’s men have struggled for form in recent weeks and will be looking to reignite their season at Old Trafford.
Predicted Outcome
We predict the match will be decided by penalties. Manchester United’s attacking struggles show no signs of abating, and even with some fresh legs, Ten Hag’s men may find it difficult to break down Newcastle’s resilient defence. While Newcastle’s away record is far from stellar, they have already shown this season that they can handle high-pressure games. With extra time unlikely to settle the score, the Magpies may hold their nerve from the spot, knocking out the defending champions and deepening United’s woes.
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