Manchester United are heading into their final match of 2024. This was a hugely disappointing year, despite winning the FA Cup, and now Ruben Amorim’s side will want to make things look at least a little bit better heading into 2025. Here is everything you need to know ahead of Newcastle’s visit to Old Trafford.
Team News
Manchester United will be without Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte for Monday’s clash due to suspensions. Fernandes received a red card against Wolves, while Ugarte reached the yellow card limit. The team will also miss Mason Mount, Victor Lindelöf, and Luke Shaw due to injuries. However, no new fitness issues emerged from the defeat at Molineux, with all five substitutions being tactical.
Harry Maguire is expected to wear the captain’s armband in Fernandes’ absence, while Matthijs de Ligt may remain on the bench as he continues his recovery from illness. Casemiro and Alejandro Garnacho could step into the starting XI to fill the gaps left by the suspensions. Garnacho, despite being dropped for the Manchester derby, is tipped for a starting role against Newcastle. Marcus Rashford, excluded from the squad against Wolves, is unlikely to feature, with a January transfer seeming increasingly probable.
Newcastle United, meanwhile, continue to cope with the absences of Callum Wilson, Jamaal Lascelles, Nick Pope, and Emil Krafth. Sven Botman is nearing a return but remains unavailable for this fixture. Tino Livramento, who missed the win over Aston Villa due to illness, is expected to return, likely relegating Kieran Trippier to the bench. Up front, Alexander Isak, with 12 goals in 19 appearances, will lead the attack, supported by Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon.
Form Guide
Manchester United enter the contest in 14th place, coming off a 2-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers. Their recent form has been dismal, with three consecutive losses to Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth, and Wolves, failing to capitalise on their Manchester derby victory earlier this month. The Red Devils have managed just 22 points from 18 matches, sitting eight points clear of the relegation zone and 12 adrift of fourth-placed Nottingham Forest.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are flying high in fifth. Eddie Howe’s side have recorded eight wins, five draws, and five losses this season, scoring 30 goals—nine more than United. The Magpies have won their last four games across all competitions, including three Premier League victories over Leicester City, Ipswich Town, and Aston Villa, netting 11 goals without conceding.
The Magpies’ defensive solidity and attacking efficiency underline the challenge awaiting United at Old Trafford. While Newcastle are not burdened by European commitments this season, they are thriving domestically, with an EFL Cup semi-final against Arsenal on the horizon.
Predicted Outcome
We predict Manchester United will get a 1-1 draw. Despite their struggles, Manchester United boast a strong home record against Newcastle and could produce a much-needed performance on Monday evening. However, Newcastle’s current form and resilience make them formidable opponents. A closely contested match is expected, with the Magpies likely doing enough to secure at least a point in their final fixture of 2024.
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