As 2024 draws to a close, Manchester United and Newcastle United are set for a titanic Premier League tussle at Old Trafford. Both clubs are desperate to head into the new year on a high, but something has to give in this pre-NYE clash of Northwest giants.
Contrasting Fortunes for Amorim and Howe
While Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has his high-flying Magpies sitting pretty in the top four, the same can’t be said for his opposite number Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese tactician is feeling the heat in the Old Trafford hot seat after a string of poor results has the Red Devils languishing in the bottom half.
Amorim knows he needs a big performance and result against Newcastle to relieve some of the mounting pressure. But that will be no easy task against a well-drilled and in-form Newcastle side that have been one of the stories of the season so far.
Manchester United Team News
- Luke Shaw – Calf injury, OUT
- Victor Lindelöf – Concussion, DOUBT
- Manuel Ugarte – Suspended
- Bruno Fernandes – Suspended
- Mason Mount – Unspecified injury, OUT
The big story for United is the continued absence of attacking talisman Marcus Rashford. The England star has found himself out of favor in recent weeks and cut a frustrated figure on the bench against Wolves.
At Man United, you’re never safe.
Ruben Amorim on his job security
Newcastle United Team News
- Nick Pope – Knee injury, OUT
- Jamaal Lascelles – Knee injury, OUT
- Emil Krafth – Collarbone injury, OUT
- Kieran Trippier – Leg injury, DOUBT
- Callum Wilson – Hamstring injury, OUT
Newcastle will be without injured keeper Nick Pope, meaning Martin Dúbravka is set to deputize between the sticks. Callum Wilson’s absence up top is a blow, but in-form Alexander Isak will lead the line at Old Trafford.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United (Predicted XI): Onana; De Ligt, Martínez, Yoro; Mazraoui, Mainoo, Eriksen, Dalot; Diallo, Antony; Højlund
Newcastle United (Predicted XI): Dúbravka; Livramento, Schär, Burn, Hall; Guimarães, Willock, Tonali; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Key Players to Watch
Rasmus Højlund (Manchester United): The Danish striker has shown flashes of his talent but needs to start delivering consistently. A big performance against Newcastle’s stingy defense could kickstart his United career.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United): With Wilson sidelined, the goalscoring burden falls on Isak’s shoulders. The Swedish international has 11 Premier League goals this season and will fancy his chances of adding to that tally against a vulnerable United backline.
Prediction
Manchester United’s woeful form makes it hard to back them with any confidence right now, even at home. Newcastle look a good bet to pile more misery on Amorim’s men and further strengthen their top-four credentials.
Prediction: Manchester United 0-2 Newcastle United
