The English Premier League resumes with a thrilling encounter as Manchester United hosts Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday, December 1st, 2024, at 7:30 PM (GMT). Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United will look to leverage their home advantage to secure vital points in their campaign, while Sean Dyche’s Everton will aim to overcome the odds and stage a spirited fightback in their pursuit of mid-table stability.
Manchester United vs Everton Form Guide
Manchester United
Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, have showcased moments of brilliance this season, particularly with their defensive structure and creativity on the wings. Players like Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes have been pivotal in driving the team’s attacking gameplay. However, the team’s inefficiency in finishing scoring chances and susceptibility to fouling in dangerous areas remain concerning weaknesses.
Everton
Everton, led by Sean Dyche, have relied on their strengths in aerial duels and their ability to create chances from set pieces. Dwight McNeil and Dominic Calvert-Lewin are among the key players expected to make an impact. Nevertheless, their defensive vulnerabilities, especially against skillful players, and an inability to maintain possession or protect leads, have been their undoing this season.
Manchester United vs Everton Key Battles
Alejandro Garnacho vs Dwight McNeil
Both Garnacho and McNeil have scored three goals each this season and will play crucial roles in their teams’ attacking efforts. Garnacho’s pace and flair will challenge Everton’s backline, while McNeil’s crossing ability could trouble United’s defense.
Bruno Fernandes vs Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Fernandes, with five combined goals and assists, will orchestrate United’s midfield, looking to exploit Everton’s defensive frailties. On the other hand, Calvert-Lewin, with three combined goals and assists, will aim to capitalize on set-piece opportunities and his aerial prowess.
Manchester United vs Everton Tactical Outlook
Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, is expected to leverage their dominance in possession and attacking creativity. Their strengths lie in stealing the ball efficiently and launching attacks through the wings, particularly down the left flank. With a focus on quick transitions and pressing high, they aim to exploit Everton’s defensive vulnerabilities. The team’s ability to protect leads and create long-shot opportunities further enhances their chances, though finishing remains an area requiring improvement.
Everton, meanwhile, will aim to counter Manchester United’s attacking threat with a disciplined, compact defensive setup. Known for their aerial prowess and ability to recover the ball effectively, they will likely target set-pieces and free-kick opportunities as potential scoring avenues. Their attacking play is focused on width and long balls, with a preference for attacking down the right side. However, weaknesses in maintaining possession and defending skillful players could pose significant challenges.
Head-to-Head Encounters
Manchester United and Everton have faced off frequently in the Premier League. Of their recent meetings, United has emerged victorious 18 times, Everton six times, with nine matches ending in draws. The odds favor United at 1.53, with a draw at 4.20 and Everton’s victory at 6.00, underscoring United’s status as the favorites.
Read More: Football Prediction | West Ham vs Arsenal | EPL 2024 | Nov 30
Injury News and Suspensions
Manchester United
Jonny Evans is currently sidelined with a knock and is expected to return to action by mid-December 2024. Meanwhile, Victor Lindelöf is recovering from a leg injury, with his return anticipated in early December 2024.
Everton
James Garner is dealing with a muscle injury, with his return expected in mid-December 2024. Similarly, Seamus Coleman is recovering from a hamstring injury and is also targeting a mid-December comeback. Youssef Chermiti, on the other hand, is nursing a foot injury and is likely to be available by late December 2024.
Possible Playing Squads
Manchester United
André Onana(GK), Jonny Evans, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Diogo Dalot, Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford
Everton
Jordan Pickford(GK),Vitaliy Mykolenko, Jarrad Branthwaite, James Tarkowski, Ashley Young,Idrissa Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucouré, Iliman Ndiaye,Dwight McNeil, Jesper Lindstrøm, Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester United vs Everton | Sunday, December 1st, 2024 | 7:30 PM (GMT) | Premier League | Old Trafford |
Match Prediction
Manchester United is likely to dominate possession and create numerous chances against a vulnerable Everton defense. While Everton could pose threats from set-pieces and counter-attacks, United’s superior quality and home advantage should secure them the win.
Score Prediction
Manchester United 2-0 Everton. Goals from Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho could seal the victory for the Red Devils in a controlled performance at Old Trafford.
Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.