Man Utd take on Everton in the Premier League on Sunday. Ruben Amorim will be aiming for a winning start to his league campaign at Old Trafford, while Sean Dyche’s Toffees have lost just once in their last nine matches, with six of those ending in draws.
Man Utd Form
United recently parted ways with Erik Ten Hag following a poor run of just one win in eight matches. Ruud van Nistelrooy stepped in temporarily, overseeing a 5-2 thrashing of Leicester in the Carabao Cup and a 1-1 home draw against Chelsea.
After a 2-0 home victory over PAOK in the Europa League, Ten Hag’s final match in charge was a 3-0 win over Leicester City. Ruben Amorim’s first game at the helm resulted in a disappointing 1-1 draw away to Ipswich. United are also set to host Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday.
Man Utd Team News
Lisandro Martínez is expected to be available for this match, but it may come too soon for Leny Yoro, while Harry Maguire might only make the bench. Luke Shaw could also return as a substitute.
Kobbie Mainoo is fit again, and Ruben Amorim might consider changes to the wide areas. Amad Diallo featured as a right wing-back against Ipswich, but Amorim could deploy Diogo Dalot in that role and shift someone else to the left wing-back position.
Man Utd Motivation
United are adapting to a new formation and coach. They’ll be eager to secure a win and build momentum in the league. Amorim’s teams typically dominate possession and utilize high wing-backs with two inside forwards. Expect an attacking approach with no intention of settling for a draw.
Everton Form
Everton started the season with four consecutive league losses and a Carabao Cup exit to Southampton on penalties after a 1-1 draw. However, they’ve since improved, losing just one of their last nine matches.
Recent results include a 2-1 home win against Crystal Palace, a 0-0 draw with Newcastle, and a 2-0 victory at Ipswich. Their 1-1 home draw with Fulham came courtesy of a last-minute goal. However, they’ve struggled to score, failing to find the net in three of their last matches, including a 1-0 loss at Southampton and goalless draws against West Ham and Brentford.
Everton Team News
Sean Dyche may be without six players, although most are fringe squad members. Dele Alli remains out, and Armando Broja is unlikely to return in time. Youssef Chermiti is nearing fitness but may miss this game.
Timothy Iroegbunam is unavailable in midfield, while James Garner has only just resumed training after a back injury. Right-back Seamus Coleman is sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Everton Motivation
Everton would be content with a draw. While they won’t fear United, a point would be valuable. Expect a defensive approach, with the Toffees likely to see only about 30% possession.
Key Stats
Man Utd have won just 4 of their last 12 matches.
Man Utd have won their last 3 home matches against Everton.
Bruno Fernandes has scored 7 goals in 11 appearances against Everton.
Everton have lost just 1 of their last 9 matches (6 draws, 2 wins).
Everton have kept 17 clean sheets in their last 50 Premier League matches (second-most behind Arsenal’s 22).
Everton’s last 50 Premier League matches have featured just 50 goals, the fewest in the division.
Verdict
Sean Dyche has built a defensively solid team capable of keeping clean sheets, but Everton struggle to score goals. United should have enough quality to secure a narrow victory and maintain a clean sheet.
Best Bet: Man Utd to win to nil at 2.60.
Correct Score Bet: Man Utd 1-0 Everton at 7.00.
Goalscorer Tip: Bruno Fernandes to score anytime at 2.90.