West Ham and Manchester United will clash at the London Stadium in Gameweek 9 of the 2024/25 Premier League season, both eager to push themselves back into the top half of the table. West Ham have had a mixed start under Julen Lopetegui, sitting 15th in the standings with just two wins in eight games. Manchester United have also struggled, managing only four victories in 13 games across all competitions.
West Ham vs Manchester United Team News & Tactics
West Ham
Julen Lopetegui faces some roster issues, with Mohammed Kudus suspended after his red card in the loss to Tottenham, and Niclas Fullkrug out with a calf injury. Kudus’ absence gives Crysencio Summerville a chance to impress, partnering with Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio in the attack. Lucas Paqueta will operate in the no. 10 role, while Edson Alvarez and Tomas Soucek will anchor the midfield.
In defense, Alphonse Areola will start in goal, with a backline of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, and Emerson Palmieri. West Ham will likely play in a 4-2-3-1 formation, looking to take advantage of Manchester United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Soucek, Alvarez; Bowen, Paqueta, Summerville; Antonio
Manchester United
Erik ten Hag’s injury list is growing, with Antony, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo, and Leny Yoro all sidelined. Jonny Evans remains a doubt. Despite these challenges, ten Hag will likely stick to a 4-2-3-1 setup.
Andre Onana will start in goal, with a defense comprising Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, and Diogo Dalot. In midfield, Christian Eriksen is expected to pair with Manuel Ugarte, while Bruno Fernandes takes on his usual no. 10 role. Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford will operate on the flanks, supporting Rasmus Hojlund up front.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Onana; Mazraoui, de Ligt, Martinez, Dalot; Eriksen, Ugarte; Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Key Stats
- West Ham United have won their last two home league games against Manchester United and aim to win three consecutive home league games vs the Red Devils for the first time since 1977.
- Manchester United have not scored in their last five league meetings with West Ham.
- West Ham have struggled defensively, conceding nine first-half goals in this season’s Premier League, a record only surpassed by Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton.
- Manchester United have a poor away record under Erik ten Hag, losing 17 Premier League away games while winning 17 during his tenure.
- Bruno Fernandes has never scored against West Ham in 12 appearances for Manchester United, and he is currently on a 16-game goal drought in all competitions.
Player to Watch: Crysencio Summerville
With Mohammed Kudus suspended, the spotlight turns to Crysencio Summerville, who has a chance to shine in West Ham’s attack. The Dutchman has patiently waited for his opportunity and will look to impress against a Manchester United side that has shown defensive fragility this season. His performance could be key to unlocking the Red Devils’ defense.
This matchup promises to be a tense affair, with both teams needing a win to gain momentum in the Premier League.
Prediction
West Ham United 1-2 Manchester United
How to Watch West Ham vs Manchester United
Watch online via NaijaSport247 TV
