Looking to secure their first Premier League double over Manchester United in 17 years, West Ham United are heading north for a captivating Premier League match against the Red Devils this Sunday.
Erik ten Hag’s squad emerged victorious with a thrilling 4-3 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers recently, while West Ham and Bournemouth ended their game in a quieter 1-1 tie.
Match preview
The early moments of Man United’s game against Wolves saw Marcus Rashford quickly score, but as the match went on, Gary O’Neil’s team fought back hard, almost managing to draw, only for Man United’s Kobbie Mainoo to score an incredible goal, securing their win and placing them seventh in the Premier League.
Despite praise for Mainoo, Man United’s defense was nearly criticized again after they joined Sheffield United as the second team to concede 50 goals across all competitions this season.
However, with three wins and a draw from their last four matches in all tournaments, Man United is looking strong as they head into the weekend.
In contrast, transfer discussions overshadowed West Ham’s recent draw with Bournemouth, marked by a disappointing start for new player Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.
Yet, James Ward-Prowse’s penalty saved a point for the team, keeping them just ahead of Man United in the league standings.
Despite some transfer issues involving Said Benrahma and Pablo Fornals, West Ham’s unbeaten streak in the league and their previous victory over Man United give them confidence, even though they’ve struggled in their last three visits to Old Trafford.
Manchester United Premier League form:
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Manchester United form (all competitions):
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West Ham United Premier League form:
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West Ham United form (all competitions):
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Team News
Lisandro Martinez’s return to Premier League action was overshadowed by injury concerns, while Man United also deals with absences like Anthony Martial and Mason Mount. However, some players are close to returning.
West Ham’s Moyes has injury concerns of his own, with Michail Antonio and Lucas Paqueta still out, while Benrahma serves a suspension. Yet, returns from Nayef Aguerd and Vladimir Coufal could bolster the team.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Manchester United:
Onana;
Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Shaw;
Mainoo, McTominay;
Antony, Fernandes, Rashford;
Hojlund
West Ham United:
Areola;
Coufal, Aguerd, Zouma, Emerson;
Soucek, Alvarez;
Kudus, Ward-Prowse, Cornet;
Bowen
Prediction: Manchester United 2-2 West Ham United
Given both teams’ recent performances, especially Man United’s defensive struggles, a high-scoring draw seems likely in this closely matched contest.