Key Stats & Insights
- Common Result: The most frequent scoreline when Manchester United hosts Fulham is 3-0, occurring three times.
- Recent Matches: Last season saw Fulham defeat Manchester United 2-1 at Old Trafford, while Manchester United won 1-0 at Craven Cottage.
- Fulham’s Away Form: Fulham are unbeaten in their last three away games, showing resilience on the road.
Game Preview
Manchester United:
Manchester United is under pressure to kickstart the 2024/25 season on a positive note after enduring their worst Premier League finish last season. Manager Erik ten Hag is in the spotlight, with his job security potentially hinging on the team’s early performances. Despite winning the FA Cup last season, the club’s league form needs substantial improvement.
The Red Devils will be without new signing Leny Yoro, who is sidelined until November due to injury. However, Joshua Zirkzee, another new recruit, could feature in this match, offering fresh attacking options.
Fulham:
Fulham enters this season aiming to improve on their 13th-place finish from last year. Despite losing key player Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich, Fulham has reinforced their squad by signing Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal and Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal. Additionally, Ryan Sessegnon returns to Fulham after a stint with Tottenham.
Fulham’s recent performance includes a convincing 4-2 victory over Luton Town, with Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore making notable contributions. Although Fulham has seen several departures, their recent form suggests they are capable of challenging stronger teams.
Team Form and Performance
Manchester United – Last 10 League Games:
- Record: 3 Wins, 3 Losses, 4 Draws
- Goals: Averaging 1.8 goals per game
- Key Players: Bruno Fernandes (6 goals), Rasmus Højlund (3 goals)
- Defensive Concerns: Conceding an average of 1.9 goals per game
Fulham – Last 10 League Games:
- Record: 3 Wins, 4 Losses, 3 Draws
- Goals: Averaging 1.5 goals per game
- Key Players: Rodrigo Muniz (4 goals), Raul Jimenez (2 goals)
- Defense: Conceding 1.7 goals per game but with a solid showing in the last few matches
Head-to-Head Records
In their last eight encounters, Manchester United has won six times, Fulham has won once, and there has been one draw. Historically, Manchester United has had the upper hand, but Fulham’s recent victory at Old Trafford in February 2024 adds an intriguing twist to this matchup.
Player Form and Availability
Manchester United Predicted Lineup: Onana (GK), Evans, Maguire, Dalot, Martínez, Casemiro, Fernandes, Mount, Mainoo, Rashford, Diallo
Fulham Predicted Lineup: Leno (GK), Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson, Lukić, Andreas, Smith Rowe, Adama, Muniz, Iwobi
Injuries and Suspensions: Manchester United will miss Leny Yoro due to injury, while Fulham will be without the recently departed Joao Palhinha.
Market Analysis (Odds)
- Manchester United Win: 1.62
- Draw: 4.33
- Fulham Win: 4.75
These odds suggest that Manchester United is the favorite, but there is value in backing Fulham, especially given their recent form and the unpredictability in Manchester United’s performances.
Prediction
While Manchester United is traditionally strong at home, Fulham’s recent away form and their ability to score against top teams could make this a tightly contested match. A close game is expected, with a slight edge towards a Fulham upset or a draw. A 2-1 victory for Fulham seems plausible if they capitalize on Manchester United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Betting Tip: Consider betting on Fulham to win or draw (+130) in the Double Chance market.