In a crucial Group A encounter, Manchester United face Bayern Munich at Old Trafford, both aiming for a decisive win to shape their UEFA Champions League destiny.
Match Preview
Manchester United’s European campaign has been marked by erratic performances. Their recent 3-3 draw against Galatasaray has left them on the brink of elimination unless they secure a victory and rely on other results to progress.
However, their domestic form suffered a setback with a disappointing 3-0 loss to Bournemouth. Erik ten Hag’s side now faces a must-win situation, requiring a victory and favorable outcomes in other matches to salvage their Champions League campaign.
Bayern Munich, already confirmed as group winners, faced a shocking 5-1 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, signaling vulnerability ahead of their clash at Old Trafford.
Despite their recent league defeat, Bayern aims to maintain their unbeaten away streak in Champions League group-stage matches.
The Bavarians boast a formidable record, winning their last eight encounters against Manchester United, setting the stage for a compelling battle at Old Trafford.
Form Guide
Manchester United (Champions League): L-L-W-L-D
Manchester United (All Competitions): W-W-D-L-W-L
Bayern Munich (Champions League): W-W-W-W-D
Bayern Munich (All Competitions): W-W-W-W-D-L
Team News
Manchester United’s injury concerns persist with several key players sidelined, including Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen, and Amad Diallo.
Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof require assessments before the match. Marcus Rashford returns from suspension, likely to feature in the squad.
Bayern Munich faces an injury setback with Serge Gnabry sustaining a significant strain, joining Matthijs de Ligt, Bouna Sarr, Gabriel Marusic, and Tarek Buchmann on the sidelines.
Jamal Musiala could return to the starting XI, while Thomas Muller might also feature.
Possible Lineups
Manchester United: (4-2-3-1)
Onana;
Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Varane, Shaw;
McTominay, Mainoo;
Antony, Fernandes, Rashford;
Hojlund
Bayern Munich: (4-2-3-1)
Neuer;
Laimer, Upamecano, Kim, Guerreiro;
Goretzka, Kimmich;
Musiala, Muller, Sane;
Kane
Prediction: Manchester United 1-3 Bayern Munich
Manchester United’s recent defensive frailties, coupled with Bayern’s desire to bounce back from their domestic defeat, could tilt the scales in favor of the German side.
While United might aim for a comeback, Bayern’s quality and form could lead them to secure a convincing win, ending Manchester United’s European aspirations for this season.
