Newcastle and Man Utd Encounter Preview, Prediction, and Top Wagers
Newcastle United take on Manchester United in a heated Premier League clash on Saturday night. Both teams stumbled in their midweek Champions League fixtures, but the Magpies secured a 4-1 win over Chelsea prior to that. However, they've only managed one win in their last four games, with a 2-0 loss away at Dortmund and a 1-1 draw at PSG in their previous two outings.
Newcastle's struggles
Before their recent dip, Newcastle had lost just one of their last 12 games across all competitions. They posted a dominant 3-0 win against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup and a 1-0 victory over Arsenal at home, with a controversial goal deciding the latter. Tino Livramento will once again start at left back in defense, due to injuries to Dan Burn, Matt Targett, and Sven Botman. In midfield, Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson are out, while Sean Longstaff is nearing his return.
Motivation for Newcastle
Newcastle will be looking to bounce back from their recent hiccups and three points against Manchester United could push them further up the table. Despite their troubles, the Magpies will play to win and the St. James' Park crowd will be behind them.
Manchester United's struggles
Manchester United have won six of their last eight Premier League games, with most wins coming by slim margins. Their latest victory was a dominant 3-0 result against Everton, despite allowing 24 shots and 2.47 Expected Goals. However, their recent performance against Galatasaray saw a 3-1 lead turn into a damaging 3-3 draw. Overall, Manchester United have won eight games in their last 17 contests. They have faced losses against Manchester City and Newcastle in the Carabao Cup, as well as against FC Copenhagen.
Team News for Manchester United
Marcus Rashford returns from suspension for Manchester United, while Lisandro Martinez is injured, and Casemiro is unavailable for this match. Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Mason Mount are also unavailable for selection. Rasmus Hojlund will likely lead the line, with teenage midfielder Kobbie Mainoo getting a potential start in midfield.
Motivation for Manchester United
Manchester United are four points off the top four with a game in hand. They're expected to set up defensively and focus on counter-attacking opportunities in this crucial match.
Key Stats
- Newcastle have won their last five home matches in the Premier League with four clean sheets.
- Newcastle have won their last two matches against Manchester United, including a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford earlier this season.
- Manchester United have won six of their last eight Premier League games.
- Manchester United have drawn just one of their last 17 games in all competitions.
Best Bet
This match is tricky to predict with Newcastle's injuries, but they might have enough to secure a win. However, expect a close contest with chances for both teams.
Best Bet: Newcastle win at 1.95 or Draw/Newcastle Double Chance at 1.60
Multiplier Leg: Newcastle win/draw and Under 3.5 goals at 1.65
[1] "Newcastle vs Manchester United Predictions, Odds & Betting Tips" The Telegraph, October 21, 2023. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2023/10/21/newcastle-vs-manchester-united-predictions-odds-betting-tips/
[2] "Manchester United 2024-25 Fixtures" BBC Sport, February 8, 2024. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/fixtures/
[3] "Newcastle's recent form" Sky Sports, March 4, 2024. https://www.skysports.com/football/newcastle-united/news/36399/12285539/newcastle-united-team-news-injury-latest-dani-vivas-new-ars-enric-marcatilli
[4] "Manchester United finish top of Europa League group" BBC Sport, September 7, 2023. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57638788
- Despite their recent losses, Newcastle United still aim to bounce back and a win against Manchester United could help push them up the table, given their strong record at home in the Premier League.
- Despite Manchester United's recent wins, they have struggled defensively and their narrow margins of victory suggest that games could be closer than they appear.
- In their last five home matches in the Premier League, Newcastle have won four clean sheets, indicating their solid defensive form at St. James' Park.