Manchester United began the season on a shaky note, having been eliminated from the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby. Nevertheless, their form has taken a positive turn, as they remain unbeaten in their last five matches. Their recent clash with Tottenham ended on a thrilling note, with a late equalizer securing a draw.
The team currently occupies seventh place in the Premier League, trailing a Champions League spot by just one point. United will face several significant matches against lower-ranked teams, including Everton, Crystal Palace, and West Ham, as they gear up for a demanding festive season.
In an unusual scheduling quirk, Manchester United will not feature in any Saturday games for the next ten weeks. Instead, they will play on various days, including Mondays, Sundays, and midweek. Their last Saturday game ended in a 2-2 draw with Tottenham on November 8, with their next Saturday fixture scheduled for January 17 against Manchester City.
Potential player absences remain a concern for United, with the Africa Cup of Nations looming. Key players like Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo might be called upon to represent their countries. Additionally, looming suspensions due to yellow cards also pose a threat.
In the Premier League, receiving five yellow cards in the initial 19 games results in a one-match ban. Notably, Patrick Dorgu risks missing the Crystal Palace game if cautioned against Everton, as he is just one yellow card away from suspension. Other players, including Casemiro and Fernandes, are also treading carefully with their card counts.
The injury of Benjamin Sesko has brought Joshua Zirkzee into focus as a crucial attacking option for United. Although frustrated by limited appearance time this season, playing only 82 minutes, Zirkzee might feature prominently in the upcoming match against Everton, offering him a chance to showcase his abilities.
Manager Ruben Amorim has underscored Zirkzee’s significance in the squad, especially in the light of the AFCON. Amorim believes Zirkzee can effectively cover for Sesko and maintain the teamâs momentum amid these challenges.
Expressing a cautious but hopeful outlook, Amorim emphasized the value of confidence and team support in improving performance. Acknowledging the stabilizing influence of key figures like Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Amorim asserts that the core focus remains on teamwork and intensity for achieving success.
Arsenal is reportedly preparing to sign Juventus midfielder Kenan Yildiz as contract talks stall at the Serie A club. The 20-year-old has attracted interest from several top clubs due to his impressive performances.
VfL Wolfsburg will be without star players Alexandra Popp and Lineth Beerensteyn for their upcoming match against RB Leipzig. Both players are dealing with injuries sustained during their recent Champions League victory over Manchester United.
Manchester United is targeting Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson for a summer transfer. The young midfielder has impressed in the Premier League and is also on the radar of other top clubs.