Manchester United vs Fulham Preview
- Manchester United to win
- Garnacho to score or assist
Manchester United kick off their Premier League campaign at Old Trafford with high hopes of erasing the memories of last season’s struggles.
The 2023/24 season saw them rack up an unenviable 14 league defeats, the most since the 1989/90 campaign. They’ll be eager to start strong, especially given their solid record in home openers, boasting five wins from their last seven.
The arrival of Matthijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich this week continues a positive transfer window, as manager Erik ten Hag bolsters his squad with familiar faces from his Ajax days.
This influx of talent could be crucial as United look to improve on last season’s disappointing results.
Fulham’s Challenging Visit to Old Trafford
Fulham, on the other hand, face a daunting task. Their memorable 2-1 victory at Old Trafford last season snapped an 18-match unbeaten run for United in this fixture, marking Fulham’s first win there since October 2003.
Despite losing key players like Tim Ream and João Palhinha, the addition of Emile Smith Rowe could inject some much-needed creativity into the Cottagers’ lineup.
However, Fulham‘s overall record at Old Trafford remains dismal, and manager Marco Silva’s personal record against United (three wins, seven losses) doesn’t inspire much confidence either.
Fulham will need to muster all their courage and tactical acumen to repeat last season’s feat.
Key Players to Watch
Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
After scoring in last week’s Community Shield, the young winger will look to carry that form into the league. Known for his clutch goals, Garnacho could once again be the difference-maker for United.
Alex Iwobi (Fulham)
The hero in last season’s corresponding fixture with a 97th-minute winner, Iwobi has proven he can deliver in big moments. His ability to find space and finish under pressure will be critical for Fulham if they are to upset the Red Devils again.
Opening Day Stakes
As the new Premier League season unfolds, both teams have a lot to prove. Manchester United are desperate to start on a high and lay down a marker for the season, while Fulham aim to build on last year’s mid-table finish and continue upsetting the odds against England’s top sides.
With strategic summer signings boosting both squads, this clash could provide early insights into their prospects for the coming season.
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Man Utd v Fulham, 2024/25 | Premier League