Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United: Preview and Prediction
Nottingham Forest and Manchester United meet at the City Ground on Tuesday evening, each looking to extend their unbeaten runs. That run of form is crucial for both teams: Forest are pushing for a top-four finish, while Manchester United are seeking to build momentum in a Premier League campaign that’s been a bit of a disappointment so far.
Team News & Tactics
Nottingham Forest
Nuno Espirito Santo faces injury concerns, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood doubtful for the match. The Tricky Trees are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on defensive stability and quick transitions.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Neco Williams; Dominguez, Anderson; Jota, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Elanga.
Gibbs-White’s fitness will be key as he orchestrates Forest’s attack from the No. 10 role. Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi will provide pace and creativity on the flanks.
Manchester United
Ruben Amorim has more positive news on the injury front, with Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro available for selection. However, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Amad Diallo remain sidelined. United will likely deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, emphasizing control in midfield and fluidity in attack.
Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Onana; de Ligt, Maguire, Yoro; Dalot, Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu; Garnacho, Zirkzee; Hojlund.
Bruno Fernandes will be pivotal in linking midfield and attack, while Rasmus Hojlund leads the line with Alejandro Garnacho adding flair on the wing.
Key Stats
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Nottingham Forest are unbeaten in their last eight home league matches (W6 D2).
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Manchester United are unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions (W3 D4).
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Nottingham Forest have not completed a league double over Manchester United since the 1991/92 season.
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Bruno Fernandes has contributed six goal involvements (three goals, three assists) in his last four Premier League appearances.
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Nottingham Forest have scored first in a league-high 22 matches this season but have lost five of six games after conceding first.
Player to Watch
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Bruno Fernandes has been Manchester United’s most consistent performer this season- even in the tough times. With three goals and three assists in his last four league games, he’ll be crucial in unlocking Nottingham Forest’s defense-and inspiring his side to victory.
Prediction
Both teams go into this match with confidence from their unbeaten runs. Forest’s strong home form gives them an edge, but Manchester United’s attacking quality could see them earn a share of the spoils. Expect a closely contested game with goals from both sides.
Nottingham Forest 2-2 Manchester United
Live Stream
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