Betscience

3 Major Blunders by Manchester United (And Why They’re Safe from Relegation)

Lately, a lot of people have been saying Manchester United might get relegated this season, and honestly, that’s one of the dumbest takes I’ve ever heard. Let me break it down for you.

First off, we have to admit United probably has the worst management in the Premier League. Actually, if you look across Europe’s top five leagues, maybe only Barcelona’s management is worse than theirs.

You might wonder, is United’s management team new or something? How else could they mess things up this badly? Let me give you a few examples of their recent blunders:

Mistake #1:
United has no real transfer strategy. When they look at signing a player, they don’t even think about whether they fit the team. Last summer, they wanted to sack Ten Hag but couldn’t find a suitable replacement, so they gave him a new contract. Fast forward a few months, and they sacked him anyway, paying him £15 million in severance. Brilliant move, right?

Mistake #2:
Over a year ago, they paid Newcastle a few million pounds to poach their sporting director. A few months later? That guy was gone too.

Mistake #3:
They paid Sporting Lisbon £12 million to bring in Amorim as manager. Thing is, Amorim wanted to wait until next summer to start, but United insisted he come in right away. Now, Amorim’s tactics are totally different from Ten Hag’s, and United’s squad isn’t built for his style. To make matters worse, United told him he’d have to wait until next summer to get new players. Make it make sense.

So yeah, the management has made some shocking decisions, but here’s why United won’t get relegated.

Reason #1:
Look at the league table. United is 14th right now, seven points clear of 18th-placed Ipswich. Plus, there’s a huge quality gap between the Premier League and the Championship. Usually, the three teams that come up are the favorites to go straight back down. This season, Ipswich, Leicester, and Southampton are most likely to drop.

Reason #2:
If you compare United’s squad to those teams, it’s not even close. Which of their starting XI wouldn’t walk into Ipswich, Leicester, or Southampton’s lineup? Exactly.

I think United’s players will slowly adapt to Amorim’s tactics. Sure, it won’t be pretty, but they’ll improve as the season goes on. Will they be title contenders? Not a chance. But relegation? Absolutely not. Let’s wait and see what changes next season brings.

Premier League Round 18: A Christmas Full of Upsets

Who could’ve predicted it? Manchester City stumbled at home with a draw against Everton, and Manchester United lost 2-0 away to Wolves. Fans are left asking: What color is the sky over Manchester now? My answer? It’s not blue or red anymore—it’s about to cave in altogether!

Manchester City: A Crisis of Confidence and Stubborn Tactics

City started the season strong with a nine-game unbeaten streak, but ever since their record-breaking 32-game undefeated run (across seasons) ended against Bournemouth, they’ve fallen apart. In their last nine league games, they’ve managed just one win and five points. Their latest disappointment—a draw against Everton—boils down to two main issues:

The team’s confidence is shot.
Guardiola’s stubborn tactical approach.

City did try to up the tempo at the start of both halves, creating some danger through their wing play, but their overall rhythm hasn’t returned. The string of poor results across all competitions has dragged down morale, and it shows on the pitch. Defensively, Akanji has lost his composure, with his poor clearance leading to Everton’s goal. Meanwhile, Rico Lewis, despite his promise in attack, struggles with positioning in defense—no better than Walker, who continues to be targeted by opponents.

Up front, Haaland’s slump continued as he missed a penalty—his second of the season. Fans are starting to ask: Why isn’t his height being used more effectively? This game highlighted some of his weaknesses in heading and attacking efficiency. Guardiola’s insistence on ground-based passing and intricate build-up play, though slightly faster-paced, remains too rigid. Everton’s left-back Mykolenko was clearly the weak link, but aside from earning a penalty through Savinho early in the second half, City failed to exploit this vulnerability.

Guardiola’s “my way or the highway” mentality—refusing to adapt his tactics to suit opponents—is one of the key reasons City didn’t come away with a win.

Looking Ahead

City’s decline is clear, and even finishing in the top four looks like an uphill battle. Without reinforcements in the January transfer window, a second-half resurgence seems unlikely.

Manchester United: Stuck in a Rut, Amorim’s Two Big Problems

United’s struggles are even worse. They’ve now lost four of their last five games, including back-to-back defeats: 3-0 at home to Bournemouth and 2-0 away to Wolves. They haven’t scored a single goal in those two matches. Manager Rúben Amorim faces two pressing issues:

Set-piece defending is a disaster.
The 3-4-3/3-4-2-1 system doesn’t fit the squad.

Set-Piece Woes

United conceded yet another goal from a corner against Wolves, bringing their tally to six set-piece goals allowed in the last five league games. This has always been a weak spot for United, but under Amorim, the problem has only gotten worse.

A Misfit Formation

Amorim’s 3-4-3 system worked wonders at Sporting CP, but it’s been far less effective at United. Rashford has now missed four straight games due to disciplinary reasons, and Bruno Fernandes was sent off with a red card in this latest match. The 3-4-3 demands midfielders with exceptional defensive discipline and work rate, but United’s current squad is nowhere near the level of, say, Chelsea’s prime pairing of Matic and Kanté or Jorginho and Kanté.

To make matters worse, Bruno’s red card was his third of the season, further disrupting United’s rhythm.

What’s Next?

United’s next three games are brutal: a home match against Newcastle, an away trip to Liverpool, and an FA Cup tie at Arsenal. Amorim will likely stick with the 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 formation, rotating players as he tries to find the right balance. However, this could mean more inconsistent performances and results.

A Final Question for Fans

If you had to choose, would you rather be Amorim or Guardiola right now?

Would you take charge of a struggling City side with glimmers of hope?
Or would you tackle United, a team bogged down by problems but desperate for a breakthrough?

Pick your poison!

7 Reasons Why Chelsea Could Overtake Liverpool to Win the Premier League

Momentum for Chelsea, Slump for Liverpool
As of Premier League Round 16, Chelsea are on a five-game winning streak and sit just two points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand—a tricky Merseyside Derby. Historically, Liverpool have only won twice away at Everton in the past decade. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s recent form has faltered with back-to-back draws against Newcastle and Fulham, conceding five goals in the process. The cracks in Liverpool’s armor are starting to show, and Chelsea are closing in on the top spot.

2. Squad Depth: Chelsea’s Luxury vs. Liverpool’s Struggles
Chelsea boast unmatched squad depth, capable of fielding three competitive lineups across the Premier League, Europa Conference League, and domestic cups. While their center-back and goalkeeper options are slightly thin, a swift January transfer window fix from Todd Boehly seems likely. In contrast, Liverpool are stretched thin. Injuries to key defenders like Konaté have exposed their frailties, with Robertson out of form and backup right-back Bradley sidelined long-term. Even Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain. Expecting Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, to invest heavily in January? Liverpool fans would be lucky if they don’t lose Wataru Endo to budget cuts.

3. Favorable Schedule for Chelsea, Tough Road for Liverpool
Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures are a dream. They won’t face another traditional “Big Six” team until January 26 when they play Manchester City—a game they might even win given their current form. Liverpool, on the other hand, have a brutal run of fixtures, including matches against Tottenham, West Ham, Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford. Add to that the demands of the Champions League and domestic cups, and Liverpool’s thin squad could struggle to keep up during the grueling festive period.

4. Unmatched Firepower
Chelsea lead the league with 37 goals, boasting the most potent attack in the Premier League. While Liverpool’s forward line is strong, it’s plagued by issues: Salah’s future is under constant speculation, and Nunez has failed to capitalize on Jota’s absence, scoring just twice in nine games. The £80 million Uruguayan has yet to justify his price tag.

5. New Manager Bounce and Young Talent Flourishing
Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have rediscovered their spark. Players like Sancho and Enzo Fernández have returned to form, while young stars such as Caicedo, Palmer, and Cucurella are making waves. Palmer, in particular, has become a standout performer, second only to Salah in goal contributions. Nicolas Jackson is also thriving, contributing to 11 goals in his last 12 home games, with his goal involvement per 90 minutes skyrocketing from 0.61 to 0.90—a 50% increase. Liverpool’s Nunez, by comparison, remains inconsistent and has fallen behind Jota and Díaz in the pecking order.

6. Tactical Mastery from Maresca
Maresca has brought a fresh tactical approach to Chelsea, centered on a 4-2-3-1 formation with seamless transitions into a 3-2-2-3 setup. His innovative use of Cucurella in midfield alongside Palmer has created a dynamic double pivot. Despite losing to Liverpool earlier in the season, Chelsea dominated key stats like possession, final-third touches, and passing accuracy (a record-breaking 88.1% for a visiting team at Anfield). Maresca has transformed Chelsea into a tactically flexible and dominant force in a short time.

7. Low-Key Leadership with High Emotional Intelligence
Despite Chelsea’s hot form, Maresca has repeatedly downplayed title talk, emphasizing that the team is still a work in progress. With an average starting XI age of just 23 years and 234 days—the youngest in the Premier League—Chelsea are building for the future. Under Maresca’s steady, emotionally intelligent leadership, this young squad is thriving without unnecessary pressure. Even if Chelsea don’t win the title this season, they’re undoubtedly one of the strongest contenders for future Premier League dominance.

Conclusion:
Chelsea’s momentum, tactical evolution, and squad depth have put them in prime position to challenge Liverpool for the title. As Liverpool face mounting challenges and a congested schedule, Chelsea’s path to the Premier League crown is becoming clearer. Whether they can seize the moment remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Blues are back in the hunt.

Manchester Derby Recap: Drama, Surprises, and Changing Fortunes

The 195th Manchester Derby delivered unexpected twists and turns. In a match that fell short of pre-game hype but offered plenty of drama, Manchester City’s hopes of defending their title took a massive hit, while Manchester United walked away with two standout winners. Here’s a breakdown of the performances from both teams.

Manchester City: Blown Opportunities and Defensive Frailty

This highly anticipated Round 16 clash in the Premier League didn’t live up to its billing in terms of quality. Despite City controlling the tempo for most of the game and appearing to have it in the bag by the 85th minute, defensive errors saw them suffer a shocking collapse.

Injuries forced City to make adjustments, including deploying £50 million Portuguese international Matheus Nunes as a makeshift left-back. For much of the game, Nunes performed admirably, keeping United’s most dangerous attacker, Amad Diallo, in check. However, a careless back pass in the 85th minute proved catastrophic, gifting United the equalizer. Just two minutes later, City’s fragile defense crumbled again as Diallo struck the decisive winner.

This marked City’s fifth league defeat of the season and another loss at the Etihad. With less than half the season gone and their rivals showing greater consistency, City’s chances of retaining their Premier League crown look all but over. The team’s immediate focus will likely shift to competing for the FA Cup and securing a top-four finish to guarantee Champions League football next season. Come January, City must address their weaknesses in defensive midfield and up front through smart recruitment.

This game was an opportunity for Guardiola’s team to bounce back, but they let it slip away. With a tough away game against Aston Villa up next, things won’t get any easier for City.

Manchester United: Two Big Winners Emerge

For United, the derby brought surprises and delight, with two standout winners stealing the spotlight.

Winner 1: Amad Diallo

Amad Diallo, the 22-year-old Ivorian winger, was unquestionably United’s hero. Despite limited goals this season, Diallo has already racked up six assists, ranking third in the league. With Rashford and Garnacho excluded from the squad due to disciplinary issues, and Mount forced off early with an injury, United’s attacking hopes rested heavily on Diallo’s shoulders.

And he delivered. Diallo earned a penalty and then sealed the victory with a late winner, single-handedly securing three crucial points for his team. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, this performance may well earn him a lucrative new deal. His game-changing display made him the clear MVP of this Manchester Derby.

Winner 2: Rúben Amorim

The second big winner was United’s manager, Rúben Amorim. He became the first coach in Guardiola’s career to defeat him twice within two months while managing two different teams. This victory not only marked United’s first win against a “Big Six” rival in two seasons but also solidified Amorim’s authority in the dressing room.

Before the game, Amorim made a bold decision to drop Rashford and Garnacho from the squad due to disciplinary breaches. Despite losing two key attacking options, United still emerged victorious. This sent a strong message to both his players and the public: under Amorim, no one is above the team. For Rashford and Garnacho, the derby result was a wake-up call to align with the manager’s vision and discipline.

Looking Ahead: A Turning Point for United?

Despite the win, United remain in the bottom half of the table, but these three points carry immense significance. It marks a potential turning point for a team searching for stability and momentum.

On the other hand, City face an uphill battle. Their inability to capitalize on key moments and their defensive fragility raise serious questions as tougher fixtures loom.

This Manchester Derby not only shifted the trajectory of the season for both teams but also highlighted the potential of Amorim’s managerial talent and Diallo’s bright future. Whether United can sustain this progress and whether City can recover from their slump remains to be seen. The season ahead promises more surprises, and we’ll be watching closely.

Manchester City vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Stats & Betting Tips

Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024

Kick-off: 4:30 PM UTC

Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester

The Manchester Derby promises to be an electrifying encounter as Manchester City hosts Manchester United in Premier League action. City is looking to recover from a rough patch of form, while United aims to build momentum after a hard-fought Europa League win. Both teams have defensive vulnerabilities, which could lead to a high-scoring affair.

Key Stats & Insights

Manchester City:
- Winless in 9 of their last 10 matches across all competitions.
- Have seen over 2.5 goals in 3 consecutive home games.
- Have seen BTTS in 8 of their last 11 Premier League home matches.
- Won 4 of the last 5 Manchester derbies.
Manchester United:
- Winless in 3 of their last 4 Premier League games.
- Have conceded in 6 of their last 7 matches.
- Haven’t won away from home in their last 7 outings.
- Have seen BTTS in 2 consecutive matches.
Head-to-Head:
- City have won 7 of the last 10 meetings.
- United lead overall in this rivalry with 79 wins to City’s 62 in 194 meetings.
- The last 5 Premier League clashes have averaged 4.8 total goals.

Team Form and Performance

Manchester City

City’s form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last 10 matches. Despite dominating possession, they’ve struggled defensively, conceding 19 goals in their previous 7 winless games. Pep Guardiola’s side has shown attacking prowess but lacks the stability to close games.

Key players like Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku have delivered in spurts, but injuries to Rodri, Nathan Ake, and John Stones have exposed defensive frailties.

Manchester United

United’s performances have been erratic marked by defensive lapses. Under Ruben Amorim, they’ve slumped to 13th in the league. Despite back-to-back losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, the Red Devils showed resilience in a comeback Europa League win against Viktoria Plzeň. Rasmus Højlund remains a bright spot, with five goals in his last four games.

Predicted Lineups

Manchester City (4-3-3):

GK: Ederson

DEF: Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Rico Lewis

MID: Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva

ATT: Jeremy Doku, Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish

Injuries: Rodri, John Stones, Nathan Ake, Oscar Bobb.

Suspensions: Rico Lewis.

Manchester United (3-4-3):

GK: Andre Onana

DEF: Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui

MID: Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Tyrell Malacia

ATT: Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Højlund, Joshua Zirkzee

Injuries: Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans.

Suspensions: None.

Market Analysis

Full-Time Result:
- Manchester City: 1.62 (62.5%)
- Draw: 4.33 (20%)
- Manchester United: 4.75 (18.5%)
Over/Under 2.5 Goals:
- Over: 1.72
- Under: 2.10
Both Teams to Score (BTTS):
- Yes: 1.88
- No: 2.00

Predictions

Correct Score: Manchester City 2-1 Manchester United
City’s home advantage and United’s defensive frailty suggest a dominant win for the hosts, though United are likely to score.
Betting Tips:
- Over 2.5 Goals: Both teams have seen high-scoring games recently.
- BTTS – Yes: Defensive gaps on both sides make this a promising pick.
- Man City to Win: At 1.62, City remains the clear favorite despite patchy form.
Value Bet:
- Man City to Lead at Half-Time and Full-Time: Offers a higher return with City’s strong starts at home.

Conclusion

This Manchester Derby pits two defensively suspect teams against each other, making goals the safest betting focus. Expect City to leverage their superior squad depth and home advantage to secure a win, while United’s attack ensures an entertaining encounter.

Check out another game insights of this match.

Manchester Derby Preview: A Clash of Struggling Giants

This Sunday, the Manchester Derby takes center stage. Recently, both Manchester City and Manchester United have been far from their best, sharing similar struggles. City currently sit in fourth place, while United are way down in 13th.

Manchester City: Injury Crisis and Form Woes

City have managed just one win in their last six league games. Adding to their problems, Rodri is unlikely to feature, and their defensive line is riddled with injuries. Versatile youngster Rico Lewis is suspended, and veteran captain Kyle Walker, who has been targeted by opposition attackers in recent matches, may still need to start. With Stones, Akanji, and Aké all dealing with injuries, Guardiola may be forced to field 19-year-old center-back Luke Mbete and 21-year-old left-back Josh Wilson-Esbrand, who has yet to make a first-team appearance this season.

In midfield, City lack physicality with their main duo of Gündoğan and Bernardo Silva. Guardiola might consider dropping Matheus Nunes back into midfield. Nunes, signed for over £50 million from Wolves, has shown glimpses of creativity as a left winger but lacks the one-on-one threat needed for that role. His past experience as a midfielder at Sporting CP, particularly alongside Ugarte, suggests he could add defensive steel and composure under pressure.

Bernardo Silva remains City’s Swiss Army knife, but he’s arguably more dangerous on the right wing, especially given summer signing Savinho’s underwhelming performances. The one bright spot for City is the return of Kevin De Bruyne, whose creativity and leadership could be pivotal.

A likely starting XI would see Haaland leading the line, with De Bruyne playing just behind him. On the left wing, if Grealish or Doku are fit enough—even if not at 100%—one of them could start. Bernardo Silva should take the right flank, while Gündoğan and Nunes pair up in midfield. In defense, Gvardiol could start as left-back if fit, with Rúben Dias and potentially Akanji as the center-back duo. Walker remains the best option at right-back. As for the goalkeeper, Guardiola could stick with Ortega, who has started the last three games, or bring back Ederson.

Manchester United: More Options but Still a Work in Progress

United, unlike City, have fewer injuries and more squad options. However, new manager Rúben Amorim is still assessing his players and must settle on a consistent starting XI soon.

The right flank has been a bright spot for United. Against a weakened City defense, deploying Mazraoui as a right-sided center-back and Diallo as a right wing-back could provide a solid balance of attack and defense. Diallo has been impressive recently, with four assists in three consecutive league matches, though his absence against Arsenal weakened United’s right-sided attack.

On the right wing, Rashford, despite underwhelming performances off the bench lately, has a proven track record against City. He has scored six goals and provided one assist in 22 matches against them, making him a reliable option in big games.

In midfield, Amorim has experimented with various pairings, but against City, Casemiro and Ugarte must start. With Rodri unavailable, United have a golden opportunity to take control of the midfield battle.

Captain Bruno Fernandes remains United’s creative linchpin, contributing three goals and three assists in his last six matches. Up front, the choice between Højlund and Zirkzee depends on the game plan. Højlund offers pace and power for a more direct approach, while Zirkzee’s technical skills and hold-up play suit a possession-based strategy.

Elsewhere, Lisandro Martínez should retain his place at the back, given City’s limited aerial threat. A preferred starting XI could see Onana in goal, a back three of Martínez, De Ligt, and Mazraoui, with Dalot and Diallo as wing-backs. Ugarte and Casemiro would anchor the midfield, while Bruno, Rashford, and Højlund lead the attack.

Match Outlook

Last season, City dominated the league meetings, completing a home-and-away double over United, although United hit back with a victory in the FA Cup final. City then avenged that loss by beating United in the Community Shield on penalties. In their last three home league games against United, City have been dominant, securing emphatic wins.

However, City’s defensive fragility this season makes this derby more unpredictable. With both teams struggling for consistency, a draw feels like the most likely outcome.

Prediction: A closely fought 1-1 or 2-2 draw.

7 Shocking Surprises from the Premier League After 15 Rounds

The Premier League has now played 15 rounds, so how does this season compare to the last? And what’s caught everyone by surprise? Personally, I think there are 7 major surprises so far.

1. Liverpool’s Revival

Who would’ve thought Liverpool, in their post-Klopp era, would be thriving under Slot? They’ve topped both the Premier League and Champions League tables. In Europe, they’ve won all six group stage games, conceding just one goal. Domestically, they sit first with a game in hand, holding onto the top spot for six consecutive weeks. Slot has transformed Gravenberch into a dominant defensive midfielder while Salah continues to shine. With almost no big signings in the summer, it’s incredible how Slot has turned Liverpool into a title contenders.

2. Manchester City’s Dip

City always has a slump at some point in the season, but who expected it to drag on for over a month? Without Rodri, they’ve struggled to recover. Their squad looks older, Haaland seems isolated up front, and after 15 rounds, they’re only fourth in the table. When they’ll climb back up to challenge Liverpool remains a mystery.

3. Chelsea’s Unexpected Form

Chelsea in second place? That’s a shocker. Their coach, Maresca, had no prior Premier League experience but has turned the Blues into an attacking machine. Across 23 games in all competitions, they’ve scored 61 goals, with 35 coming in 15 Premier League matches—far more than any other team. The club’s focus has shifted from aiming for a top-four finish to competing for the title.

4. Arsenal: Kings of Corners

Arsenal have earned the nickname “Kings of Corners.” From last season to now, they’ve scored 23 league goals from corners—the most in Europe’s top five leagues. This season alone, they’ve netted seven. And those goals have made a difference, helping them win crucial matches like their away victory over Spurs and their home win against Manchester United, where all three goals came from set pieces.

5. Nottingham Forest: The Dark Horse

Last season, Forest barely avoided relegation, finishing 17th. This season, they’re the surprise package, sitting fifth in the table. For the first time in the club’s history, they’ve won league away games against both Liverpool and Manchester United in a single season. Plus, 33-year-old Kiwi striker Chris Wood has scored 10 goals, placing fourth in the Premier League’s scoring chart.

6. Brentford’s Home Fortress

The best home record in the league isn’t Liverpool, City, or Arsenal—it’s Brentford. The Bees have won seven and drawn one of their eight home games, remaining unbeaten at their stadium. The downside? Their away form is dreadful, with just one point picked up on the road. As a result, they’re only ninth in the table despite their home dominance.

7. Manchester United’s Chaos

Finally, Manchester United under the new INEOS ownership. Despite going through three managers, their performances remain wildly inconsistent. To add to the chaos, sporting director Ashworth left after just five months in the job. United sit 13th in the table, a position they haven’t been in after 15 games since the 1986–87 season.

So, which of these surprises did you really not see coming?

Premier League Best XI: Top Performers After 15 Rounds

The Premier League has now completed 15 rounds, and how should we choose the best XI? In this article, I will share my own opinions. For the formation, I will go with the 4-2-3-1 setup.

Goalkeeper

My choice is Onana. Although in the 15th round Manchester United conceded a goal at home to Nottingham Forest due to a relatively unthreatening shot by Gibbs White, Onana’s overall performance has been quite stable over the first 15 rounds. According to statistics he is the most efficient goalkeeper in Europe’s top five leagues at preventing goals, having helped Manchester United avoid at least six goals.

Left-Back

For left-back, my pick is Arsenal’s Timber. Timber is extremely versatile, capable of playing as a center-back or filling in on either flank. However based on his minutes this season, he has primarily been deployed as a left-back. Last season Timber suffered a serious injury in the first match, but this season he has secured consistent playing time, and no other player has outperformed him in this position.

Right-Back

For right back, I continue to choose Manchester United’s Mazraoui. He was one of the best value signings during this summer’s transfer window and was named Manchester United’s Player of the Month for November. In a four-man defense, Mazraoui remains the most reliable choice for the right-back position.

Center-Backs

For the two center-back positions, I pick Gabriel and Van Dijk. Van Dijk, now 33, has been incredibly consistent this season and is reportedly seeking a long-term contract with the club. He serves as the defensive anchor for Liverpool, a team that has conceded the fewest goals in the league this season. Meanwhile Gabriel is a key figure in Arsenal’s dominance during set pieces, earning them the nickname “Kings of Corners.” This season, Gabriel has scored three headed goals, and his defensive prowess makes him an indispensable part of this best XI.

Defensive Midfielders

For the two holding midfielders, my choices are Chelsea’s Caicedo and Liverpool’s Gravenberch. Caicedo, valued at over £100 million has formed a dynamic midfield duo with Enzo, delivering consistent performances. He has contributed one goal and two assists for Chelsea and played a crucial role in their comeback victory over Tottenham in the 15th round, securing a vital penalty. Gravenberch, on the other hand, has been a standout for Liverpool, leading the league in interceptions and successful duels, despite a slight dip in form during their draw with Newcastle, his presence in midfield is unmatched.

Left-Winger

For the left-wing position, while no player has been overwhelmingly outstanding, my choice is Newcastle’s Gordon. He scored in key matches against Manchester City and Liverpool at home and provided an assist in Newcastle’s victory over Arsenal.

Attacking Midfielder

In the attacking midfield role, the clear choice is Chelsea’s Palmer. This season he has scored 11 goals and provided 6 assists, setting a new Premier League penalty record. With 12 career penalties converted without a miss, he has surpassed Yaya Touré to become the most prolific and accurate penalty taker in Premier League history.

Right-Winger

For the right wing position, I select Arsenal’s Saka. He currently leads the Premier League in assists with 10 and has also scored 5 goals. His influence has grown significantly, especially following Ødegaard’s return to the squad.

Striker

For the lone striker role in the 4-2-3-1 formation, my choice is Liverpool’s Salah. His form has been phenomenal this season. The Egyptian King has delivered both goals and assists in six league matches, with a total of 13 goals and 8 assists to his name.

Conclusion

This is my Premier League Best XI after 15 rounds, as we approach one-third of the season. What do you think?

Best free betting tip today: Spain vs Switzerland prediction, match preview, odds

Game Preview

Spain hosts Switzerland in the final group-stage match of the UEFA Nations League on November 18, 2024, in Tenerife. Kickoff is at 7:45 PM UTC, and the game is set to take place at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium. Spain has already sealed the top spot in their group and is playing to maintain momentum, while Switzerland, already relegated, will be playing for pride.

Spain comes into this clash as heavy favorites. They’re unbeaten in 15 games and in great form, while Switzerland has struggled throughout the competition and remains winless. All signs point toward another dominant performance by the hosts.

Key Stats & Insights

Spain are unbeaten in their last 15 matches (W13, D2).
Spain have scored 2+ goals in 8 of their last 10 home games.
Spain have won 10 straight home matches.
Switzerland have failed to win any of their last six games (D2, L4).
Switzerland have conceded 2+ goals in 4 of their last 5 matches.
Spain won their last meeting 4-1 in September 2024.

Form & Performance

Spain:
Spain is firing on all cylinders. They’ve won four consecutive games in the Nations League, including a 2-1 victory over Denmark last week. With 13 points from five matches and only two goals conceded, their defense has been rock-solid. Despite a few injuries, Spain’s depth ensures they’ll field a strong side capable of dominating again.

Switzerland:
Switzerland’s Nations League campaign has been forgettable. They’ve managed just two points in five games and struggled defensively, conceding 11 goals. Their last match, a 1-1 draw with Serbia, highlighted their issues in converting possession into meaningful results. They’ve already been relegated and will be low on confidence heading into this game.

Head-to-Head

Spain has a 7-2 advantage in 12 meetings, with three draws.
Spain won 4-1 in their most recent clash in September 2024.
Spain have won three of their last five matchups, with Switzerland winning only once.

Player Form & Team News

Spain:
Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Oyarzabal have been standout players, with Ruiz scoring twice in this Nations League campaign. Ayoze Perez is another player in form after a goal and an assist against Denmark. Despite missing Rodri, Gavi, and Dani Carvajal due to injuries, Spain has plenty of depth to control this match.

Switzerland:
Zeki Amdouni has been a bright spot for Switzerland, scoring their lone goal in the draw against Serbia. However, injuries to players like Denis Zakaria have hampered their options. With their defensive struggles and lack of form, Switzerland faces an uphill battle.

Predicted Lineups

Spain (4-2-3-1):
David Raya; Oscar Mingueza, Aymeric Laporte, Dani Vivian, Alejandro Grimaldo; Mikel Merino, Fabian Ruiz; Nico Williams, Dani Olmo, Yeremy Pino; Alvaro Morata.

Switzerland (3-4-3):
Gregor Kobel; Eray Comert, Ricardo Rodriguez, Aurele Amenda; Edimilson Fernandes, Granit Xhaka, Remo Freuler, Fabian Rieder; Noah Okafor, Zeki Amdouni, Andi Zeqiri.

Betting Odds & Market Analysis

Spain to Win: 1.40 (-250) – 67.7% chance.
Draw: 4.75 (+375) – 22.7% chance.
Switzerland to Win: 7.00 (+600) – 16.7% chance.

Bookmakers expect Spain to dominate. Backing Spain to win with a -1.5 Asian Handicap at +123 offers great value. For goals, Over 2.5 is a solid option, while Both Teams to Score (BTTS – Yes) could also deliver at 1.85.

Predictions

Correct Score Prediction: Spain 3-1 Switzerland
Spain’s form and attacking quality make a comfortable win likely, though Switzerland could grab a goal.
Top Betting Tips:
- Spain -1.5 Asian Handicap (+123)
- Over 2.5 goals in the match.
- Spain to win both halves (HT/FT).
Value Bet:
BTTS – Yes at 1.85 is worth a look, especially given the recent head-to-head trends.

Best free betting tip today: Flamengo vs Atlético Mineiro prediction, match preview, odds.

Game Preview: Flamengo will be looking to continue their strong form as they face Atlético Mineiro in Serie A today. The hosts come into the match after a solid run, including a recent Copa do Brasil triumph over Atlético. Flamengo are in a much better position overall, while Atlético have been struggling lately, particularly away from home.

Flamengo are the favorites to win, with a -125 price on the Full-Time Result market. Given their dominance in recent head-to-head meetings and Atlético’s poor run, this looks like a solid bet for the home side.

Key Stats & Insights:

Flamengo have won 7 of the last 10 head-to-head meetings with Atlético Mineiro.
Flamengo have scored 9 goals in their last 6 matches (1.5 goals per game).
Atlético Mineiro have only won 1 of their last 6 games and have struggled away, losing their last 3 away matches in Serie A.
Flamengo have conceded 1.2 goals per match in their recent league games, while Atlético have conceded 1.7.

Team Form and Performance:

Flamengo: Lately, Flamengo has been in strong form, securing 5 wins in their last 10 league games. They have a solid record at home with 10 wins in their last 16 games. However, they do have a few injury concerns with Nicolás de la Cruz and Pedro sidelined.
Atlético Mineiro: In contrast, Atlético have been in a slump, with only 3 wins in their last 10 league games and no wins in their last 4 away matches. They’ve also struggled to score, averaging just 1 goal per game in their last 6 outings.

Head-to-Head Records: In the most recent meetings between these two, Flamengo have been dominant, winning 5 of the last 6 encounters. The last meeting saw Flamengo beat Atlético 1-0 in the Copa do Brasil. Historically, Flamengo have a strong advantage in the overall head-to-head, with 24 wins compared to Atlético’s 11.

Player Form and Availability:

Flamengo: Flamengo will be missing a few key players, including striker Pedro and midfielder Nicolás de la Cruz. However, the likes of Michael, Gerson, and Carlos Alcaraz will be crucial in attacking.
Atlético Mineiro: Atlético’s only injury concern is Cadu, leaving them largely at full strength. However, their form has been poor, and they will rely heavily on the experience of Hulk and Paulinho to lead the attack.

Predicted Lineups:

Flamengo (4-2-3-1): Agustin Rossi; Wesley, David Luiz, Fabrício Bruno, Ayrton; Erick Pulgar, Evertton; Michael, Carlos Alcaraz, Matheus Gonçalves; Bruno Henrique.
Atlético Mineiro (3-5-2): Everson; Bruno Fuchs, Lyanco, Júnior Alonso; Renzo Saravia, Otavio, Fausto Vera, Bernard, Guilherme Arana; Hulk, Paulinho.

Market Analysis (Odds):

Flamengo to Win: 1.83 (55.6% chance)
Draw: 3.40 (29.4% chance)
Atlético Mineiro to Win: 4.20 (23.8% chance)
The odds heavily favor Flamengo, given their superior form, home advantage, and recent success over Atlético.

Predictions:

Correct Score Prediction: Flamengo 2-0 Atlético Mineiro (+500 for 1-0) or 2-1 (+750 for 2-1).
Betting Tips:
- Flamengo to Win: At -125, Flamengo are the clear favorites, making them a strong pick for a straight win.
- Double Result (HT/FT): Consider backing Flamengo to lead at both half-time and full-time for added value.
- Under 2.5 Goals: If you think the game will be tightly contested, the under 2.5 goals market could be a solid bet, with both teams averaging low goals per match.

Value Bets:

Flamengo to Win 2-0: Given Atlético’s current struggles and Flamengo’s defensive solidity, a 2-0 victory for Flamengo at +500 seems like good value.

Summary: Flamengo are strong favorites for this clash with Atlético Mineiro, and with their recent form, home advantage, and superior head-to-head record, they look set to continue their dominance. With betting odds pointing in their favor, backing Flamengo for a win is the best betting option. For more value, consider the 2-0 correct score prediction.