Manchester United is set to face Southampton in a crucial Premier League clash at Old Trafford. Both teams enter the match with different agendas: United aims to solidify their top-four ambitions, while Southampton seeks to escape the relegation zone under new manager Ivan Juric.
Manchester United Team News
United will be without key full-back Diogo Dalot, who is serving a one-match suspension following a red card in the FA Cup win against Arsenal. Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed that Dalot’s absence provides an opportunity for other players to step up.
- Tyrell Malacia is likely to slot in at left wing-back after impressing as a substitute against Arsenal.
- Noussair Mazraoui could switch to the left, opening up the right flank for attacking options like Amad Diallo, Alejandro Garnacho, or Antony.
- Youngster Toby Collyer is also in contention after impressing in training and a recent cup cameo.
Injuries remain a concern for United, with Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw all sidelined. Altay Bayindir, who starred in goal against Arsenal, may make way for regular starter Andre Onana, who has played all Premier League games since joining United in 2023.
Southampton Team News
Southampton arrives with renewed confidence after a 3-0 FA Cup win over Swansea City, led by Tyler Dibling’s brace and a rare goal from Kamaldeen Sulemana. Manager Ivan Juric hopes to build on this momentum as the Saints fight for survival.
- Jack Stephens and Ross Stewart are unavailable due to injury.
- Flynn Downes has resumed training and may feature later in the game.
Key Talking Points
- Dalot’s Absence: With Dalot unavailable, United’s defensive reshuffle will be under scrutiny. Can Malacia or Mazraoui fill the void effectively?
- Southampton’s Momentum: Juric’s side is looking for back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Will Dibling and Sulemana deliver again?
- Ruben Amorim’s Decisions: Amorim faces a tactical dilemma with multiple attacking options. How will his choices impact the game?
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United (3-4-3):
Onana; Varane, Martinez, Maguire; Mazraoui, Fernandes, Casemiro, Malacia; Garnacho, Rashford, Hojlund.
Southampton (4-2-3-1):
Bazunu; Bree, Bednarek, Wood, Manning; Ward-Prowse, Alcaraz; Sulemana, Aribo, Dibling; Adams.
Match Prediction
With home advantage and superior squad depth, United is expected to edge past the Saints. However, Southampton’s newfound confidence under Juric could make this a closely contested game.
Score Prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Southampton
