Manchester United vs Everton Preview
- United to win
- Højlund to score
Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United continue their quest to climb out of the Premier League’s bottom half as they host a struggling Everton side at Old Trafford. With contrasting recent fortunes, this fixture could prove pivotal for both teams.
Manchester United: Building Momentum Under Amorim
The Amorim era at Manchester United has begun with a flurry of excitement. After a 1-1 draw in his debut against Ipswich, Amorim’s side edged a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday.
Notably, United have struck within the opening 90 seconds in both matches under the Portuguese manager, a sign of their renewed attacking intent.
United’s record against Everton will also provide confidence. The Red Devils have beaten the Toffees an all-time Premier League record 41 times, including each of the last four meetings.
Another victory here would mark their longest streak in this fixture since their dominance between 1999 and 2004.
Rasmus Højlund has emerged as a key player for United, delivering a scintillating performance midweek with two goals and an assist. The Danish striker will be eager to carry that form into the league and stake his claim for a regular starting spot under Amorim.
Everton: Searching for Answers
Sean Dyche’s Everton head into this match winless in their last four games (D3, L1) and without a goal in their last three.
Their lack of firepower was evident in consecutive goalless draws, including a frustrating stalemate against Brentford where they failed to capitalize on playing against ten men for much of the match.
Everton’s record at Old Trafford offers little encouragement. They have just one win in their last 31 Premier League visits (D8, L22), a solitary triumph that came in December 2013.
Compounding their woes, the Toffees have won only once in their last 17 league away games (D6, L10) and remain dangerously close to the relegation zone.
If Everton are to break their scoring drought, Dwight McNeil could play a pivotal role. The winger has created 30 chances in the Premier League this season, nearly double that of any of his teammates, and will need to deliver if the Toffees hope to trouble United’s defense.
Key Battles
Rasmus Højlund vs Everton’s Defense
Højlund’s physicality and movement will test Everton’s backline, particularly with his ability to combine hold-up play with sharp finishing. Everton’s center-backs must stay compact and alert to limit his influence.
Dwight McNeil vs Manchester United’s Full-Backs
McNeil’s creativity and crossing ability will be vital for Everton, especially if Dominic Calvert-Lewin is available to lead the line. United’s full-backs must neutralize McNeil’s supply to avoid defensive lapses.
Tactical Analysis
Manchester United will look to build on their attacking intensity under Amorim, aiming to dominate possession and create early chances.
With Højlund in form and Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield, the Red Devils have the tools to exploit Everton’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Everton, meanwhile, are likely to adopt a pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive solidity and counterattacking opportunities. Set pieces could be a key area for Dyche’s men, given their struggles to create from open play.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Everton
Manchester United’s recent attacking resurgence and Everton’s struggles in front of goal suggest a comfortable home victory. Højlund’s form and Amorim’s proactive approach should help United secure all three points, further lifting them up the table.
For Everton, another goalless outing appears likely unless they can unlock United’s defense through McNeil’s creativity or capitalize on set-piece opportunities. A tough trip to Old Trafford may only deepen their relegation fears.
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Man Utd v Everton, 2024/25 | Premier League