Everton and Manchester United will face off at Goodison Park on Saturday in a crucial Premier League encounter. Both teams are eager to secure three points, but for very different reasons. Everton are riding a wave of momentum under David Moyes, while Manchester United are desperate to turn their season around under Ruben Amorim.
Everton’s Recent Form
Since David Moyes returned to Goodison Park, Everton have been transformed. The Toffees have lost just twice under his management, with one of those defeats coming in the FA Cup. Their latest victory, a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, showcased their resilience and attacking flair.
Everton are currently sitting comfortably in the top half of the table and will be looking to continue their strong run of form. With Goodison Park set to bid farewell to the club soon, the players are determined to create lasting memories for their fans.
Manchester United’s Struggles
Manchester United, on the other hand, are in a dire situation. Ruben Amorim’s tenure has been underwhelming, with the Red Devils barely managing to win any Premier League games. Their latest setback, a 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, dropped them to 15th in the standings.
United’s lack of consistency and inability to score goals have been major issues this season. They’ve failed to find the back of the net in ten Premier League games, and their attack has looked toothless for large stretches.
Team News and Tactics
Everton
David Moyes has a relatively healthy squad to choose from, with Abdoulaye Doucouré returning from suspension. However, Seamus Coleman, Nathan Patterson, Orel Mangala, Dwight McNeil, Youssef Chermiti, Iliman Ndiaye, Armando Broja, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin remain sidelined.
Everton are expected to line up in a 4-4-1-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will start in goal, with Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, and Vitaliy Mykolenko forming the backline. James Garner and Idrissa Gueye will anchor the midfield, while Jesper Lindstrom and Jack Harrison provide width. Carlos Alcaraz will operate as the number 10, supporting striker Beto, who has been in excellent form.
Probable Lineup (4-4-1-1): Pickford; O’Brien, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Lindstrom, Gueye, Garner, Harrison; Alcaraz; Beto
Manchester United
Ruben Amorim has a lengthy injury list to contend with. Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, and Christian Eriksen are hopeful of returning, but Altay Bayindir, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, Toby Collyer, Amad Diallo, and Mason Mount remain unavailable.
United are likely to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation. André Onana will start in goal, with Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, and Matthijs de Ligt forming the back three. Diogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu will operate as wing-backs, providing width and defensive support.
In midfield, Bruno Fernandes will partner Manuel Ugarte, while Alejandro Garnacho and Joshua Zirkzee support striker Rasmus Højlund in attack.
Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, de Ligt; Dalot, Ugarte, Fernandes, Dorgu; Zirkzee, Garnacho; Højlund
Key Stats
- Everton have lost their last five Premier League games against Manchester United, failing to score in the last four.
- Manchester United have failed to score in ten Premier League games this season, their joint-worst record in a single campaign.
- Everton have scored at least twice in their last three home league games.
- David Moyes has won his last two Premier League home games against Manchester United, both with West Ham.
- Beto has scored four goals in his last three Premier League appearances, matching his tally from his first 44 games in the competition.
Player to Watch: Beto
Beto has been a revelation under David Moyes, scoring four goals in his last three Premier League games. His clinical finishing and ability to lead the line have been crucial for Everton. If he can continue his scoring streak, he could be the difference-maker in this clash.
Everton vs Man United Prediction
Everton’s recent form and home advantage make them favorites heading into this match. Manchester United’s struggles in front of goal and defensive vulnerabilities could prove costly.
Everton 2-1 Manchester United
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