Spurs recently knocked out the Red Devils from the Carabao Cup after a thrilling 4-3 scoreline.
Matchweek 17 of the Premier League 2024-25 fixtures take us to the iconic Old Trafford where Manchester United host AFC Bournemouth.
When Ruben Amorim took the reins at Manchester United, succeeding Erik ten Hag, there were lofty expectations that he would steer the club back to its golden era. Under his guidance, the team showcased resilience, maintaining an impressive unbeaten streak while securing key victories. Among those triumphs was a monumental win over arch-rivals Manchester City at the Etihad, marking a high point in Amorim’s tenure.
However, their recent outing in the Carabao Cup against Tottenham Hotspur ended in disappointment. Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs delivered a dominant performance, extinguishing United’s hopes of advancing to the semi-finals and dealing a blow to Amorim’s campaign.
Now, Manchester United will look to regroup and shift their focus to the upcoming Premier League clash against Bournemouth. With hopes of returning to winning ways, Amorim and his squad will aim to regain momentum and reassert their ambitions for the season.
AFC Bournemouth have emerged as one of the standout sides in this season’s Premier League, showcasing remarkable improvement and strategic upgrades under their current management. The Cherries are currently positioned 6th in the league standings and are in prime contention to breach the top four with a victory over Manchester United. Such a leap would bolster their ambitions of securing a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League, a remarkable achievement for the club.
In their last five fixtures, Bournemouth have demonstrated consistency, registering three wins, one draw, and one loss. However, their recent disappointment came in the form of dropped points against West Ham, a result that has left them eager to return to winning ways. Facing Manchester United, Bournemouth will be determined to capitalize on their form, reestablish their momentum, and further solidify their status as top-four contenders.
Kick-off:
Sunday, December 22, 2024 at 7:30 PM IST
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester, UK
Form:
Man Utd (in all competitions): L-W-W-L-L
Bournemouth (in all competitions): D-W-W-W-L
Players to watch out for:
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Who better than the captain, Bruno Fernandes, to lead Manchester United during a period when the team needs his leadership and brilliance on the pitch? At 30, the Portuguese maestro from Maia has consistently proven his worth as one of the most pivotal figures at Old Trafford. Not only is he a talismanic presence in the attacking midfield, but he is also a motivator, inspiring his teammates to rally together and play as a cohesive unit.
Fernandes’ decorated tenure at Manchester United includes lifting the FA Cup in the 2023-24 season and clinching the Carabao Cup during the 2022-23 campaign. His individual accolades further underscore his importance, with the prestigious Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award adorning his collection on three separate occasions.
As the undisputed henchman of this squad, all eyes will be on Bruno Fernandes as he looks to marshal his team to a vital victory against Bournemouth, helping them regain their lost momentum and solidify their position in the league.
Antonie Semeyo (Bournemouth)
Antoine Semenyo, the 24-year-old prodigious striker from London, has established himself as a key player for AFC Bournemouth. Having honed his skills during spells with Bristol City and Sunderland, Semenyo’s move to Bournemouth marked a turning point in his career. Since his arrival, he has made a significant impact, scoring 13 goals in 59 appearances and showcasing his relentless work ethic and sharp attacking instincts.
On the international stage, Semenyo has been a vital contributor to the Ghana national team, netting 2 goals in 25 matches and proving his worth as a reliable forward. His early promise was evident when he was awarded Bristol City’s Player of the Season accolade for the 2021-22 campaign, a testament to his burgeoning talent.
As Bournemouth gear up to face Manchester United, all eyes will be on Semenyo to spearhead their attack, ensuring his side can capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain their push for a top-four spot. His ability to influence games could be decisive in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Match Facts:
- United boast a 63% win accuracy over their opponents.
- The Red Devils lost three games in their last five matches.
- Bournemouth have won three in their last five matches.
Manchester United vs AFC Bournemouth – Betting Tips and Odds:
- United to win the match – 4/5 with bet365
- Rasmus Hojlund to score first – 5/1 with William Hill
- Manchester United 2-1 AFC Bournemouth – 7/1 with Paddypower
Injuries and Team News:
United’s list of absentees includes Mason Mount who will be out after picking up a leg injury. The Red Devils will also likely miss the presence of Luke Shaw. Rashford, Mount, Nousssair Mazraoui and Victor Lindelof will be assessed for any possible injury and fitness concerns.
Bournemouth will most likely miss the presence of Luis Sinisterra and Marcus Tavernier, both of who picked a hamstring injury and are set to be absent in the upcoming match.
Head to Head stats:
Total matches – 22
Man Utd won – 14
Bournemouth won – 04
Matches drawn – 04
Predicted Lineup:
Man United predicted lineup (3-4-3):
Onana (GK); de Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dalot; Diallo, Hojlund, Fernandes
Bournemouth predicted lineup (4-2-3-1):
Arrizabalaga (GK); Smith, Zabarnyi, Hijsen, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Semeyo, Kluivert, Ouattara; Evanilson
Match Prediction:
Bournemouth may seem to have a better form compared to United. But the Red Devils at Old Trafford unleash their different beast. Despite all the injury concerns, we expect Amorim’s side to score a stoppage-time winner and walk away with all three points.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-1 AFC Bournemouth
Telecast Details:
India: Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar
UK: Sky Sports, TNT Sports
USA: NBC Sports
Nigeria: SuperSport, NTA, Sporty TV
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