Manchester United vs Crystal Palace Preview

• Draw
• Both teams to score

Manchester United welcome Crystal Palace to Old Trafford as Ruben Amorim looks to continue his side’s recent resurgence.

However, the Eagles have been one of the best away teams in the league in recent months, making this a fascinating encounter with potential implications in the mid-table battle.

Manchester United: Building Momentum Under Amorim

After a turbulent start under Ruben Amorim, Manchester United finally appear to be finding some consistency.

Their 3-0 win over Luton last weekend was followed by a 2-0 victory against FCSB in the Europa League, marking the first time they have recorded three consecutive wins this season.

Perhaps even more importantly, United have now kept back-to-back clean sheets, something that had been a rarity earlier in the campaign. However, Old Trafford has not been a fortress under Amorim, with the Red Devils losing four of their last five home league matches (W1).

Another concern is United’s recent goal drought against Palace, having failed to score in each of their last three Premier League meetings.

They haven’t gone four straight league games without scoring against a single opponent since 1983, making this a crucial test for Amorim’s tactical adjustments.

Key Player: Kobbie Mainoo

The young midfielder has been a revelation for United and impressed in a more advanced role against FCSB, where he became the first player to score and assist in his first major European start for United since Wayne Rooney in 2004. His creativity and work rate could be crucial in breaking down Palace’s disciplined defence.

Crystal Palace: Masters of the Road

Crystal Palace have been one of the Premier League’s best away teams in recent months, accumulating 13 points on the road since the start of December—more than any other club in that period.

The Eagles have won four of their last five away matches (D1), including three victories without conceding.

Their impressive form has eased any relegation fears, and a win at Old Trafford would see them leapfrog United in the league table.

Unlike in previous years, Palace are no longer overawed by a trip to this historic stadium, having won three of their last five visits to United (L2)—a better record than in their first 22 away meetings combined (W2, D6, L14)!

Key Player: Romain Esse

The new Palace signing made an immediate impact, scoring within two minutes of coming off the bench on his Premier League debut against Brentford.

Only three teenagers have ever scored in their first two Premier League appearances, and all either played for or later joined United (Alan Smith, Federico Macheda, and Anthony Martial). Esse will be eager to join that elite group.

Tactical Insights

Manchester United’s Approach

• Amorim will likely rotate his squad after a tight turnaround from Thursday’s Europa League game.
• United may look to dominate possession, pressing high to force Palace into mistakes.
• Wide players like Garnacho and Amad Diallo could be crucial in stretching Palace’s compact defensive setup.

Crystal Palace’s Strategy

• Palace have been excellent on the counter-attack and will aim to sit deep, absorb pressure, and break quickly.
• Their full-backs could play a key role in limiting United’s wide threat, while Eberechi Eze could be the creative spark in midfield.
• Given United’s struggles at home, expect Palace to be patient and wait for moments to exploit defensive gaps.

Head-to-Head Record

• Recent Meetings: Palace have won three of their last five trips to Old Trafford.
• Last Meeting: Palace secured a 1-0 win at Old Trafford earlier this season.
• United’s Goal Drought: The Red Devils haven’t scored in their last three league meetings with Palace.

Predictions and Final Thoughts

This is a tough game to call. United have been improving under Amorim, but their poor home form and struggles against Palace make this a real test. Meanwhile, Palace’s away record is superb, and they will relish the opportunity to extend their streak against United.

Predicted Scoreline: Manchester United 1-1 Crystal Palace

Expect a tight, hard-fought contest where United’s struggles at home and Palace’s counter-attacking strength lead to a low-scoring draw.

Conclusion

United’s improving form will be tested against a Palace side that thrives on the road. The Red Devils must overcome their Old Trafford struggles and goal drought against Palace if they are to continue their push up the table. With Palace’s recent success at this ground, this has the makings of a tense and tactical battle.

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Man Utd v Crystal Palace, 2024/25 | Premier League