The 2024/25 English Premier League season is set to commence with an exciting matchup on Friday night as Manchester United welcomes Fulham to Old Trafford.
Both teams will be looking to improve on their performances from the previous season, making this clash a significant opener for their campaigns.
Match Preview
Manchester United finished last season in 8th place with 60 points, a position that fell short of their expectations.
They enter this match on the back of a narrow defeat in the Community Shield against their city rivals, Manchester City.
After a goalless first half, United took the lead late in the game, only to see City equalize and subsequently win the penalty shootout 7-6.
Despite a rocky preseason that saw them win just 2 of their 6 friendlies, including matches against Rangers and Real Betis, United are looking to regain their competitive edge.
Historically, United have been strong at home, remaining undefeated in 8 of their last 10 Premier League matches at Old Trafford.
They have also not lost to Fulham in 26 of their last 29 league encounters, a record that will boost their confidence heading into this fixture.
Fulham, on the other hand, finished 13th in the previous season with 47 points.
They come into this match following a positive note after securing a 2-0 victory over Hoffenheim in their final preseason friendly.
This win, alongside a previous 1-0 triumph over Benfica, has provided them with some momentum, although they also suffered a defeat to Sevilla (2-1).
Fulham’s away form has been concerning, having won just 3 of their last 18 Premier League away matches.
Head to Head
Historically, Manchester United has dominated matches against Fulham, having not lost to them in 22 of their last 29 meetings in the Premier League.
This strong record adds an additional layer of pressure on Fulham as they look to challenge a formidable United side.
Team News
Manchester United will be missing key players due to injuries, including Leny Yoro, Rasmus Højlund, and Tyrell Malacia.
Additionally, the fitness of Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, and Jonny Evans remains uncertain.
Despite these challenges, United’s squad depth and experience will be crucial.
Fulham, however, arrives at Old Trafford with a clean bill of health and no major injury concerns.
New signing Emile Smith Rowe is set to make his competitive debut after joining from Arsenal, which could provide an additional boost to their attacking options.
Prediction
Considering Manchester United’s strong home record and their historical dominance over Fulham, we predict a victory for the hosts.
Although they have injury concerns, their overall squad quality and performance against Manchester City in the Community Shield suggest they will be able to secure a win while keeping a clean sheet.
- Score Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Fulham
Betting Tips
Manchester United to Win: Given their strong home advantage and historical success against Fulham, betting on a Manchester United victory is a solid choice.
Under 2.5 Goals: While United are expected to win, the match could be tightly contested, making a wager on under 2.5 goals a possibility.
Both Teams to Score – No: With United’s solid defense and Fulham’s struggles in away matches, betting on both teams not to score could be worthwhile.
Clean Sheet for Manchester United: Given their defensive capabilities and Fulham’s away form, a bet on Manchester United to keep a clean sheet could yield favorable returns.
