Newcastle United host Manchester United in a Premier League clash that could significantly impact the Magpies’ Champions League ambitions. Eddie Howe’s side, fifth in the table and unbeaten in four matches across all competitions, face a Red Devils team languishing in 13th and prioritizing their Europa League campaign.
The Magpies will be without defender Lewis Hall who is nursing a foot injury, center-backs Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles (both knee), and midfielder Joe Willock (concussion). Winger Anthony Gordon (groin) remains a doubt, though Alexander Isak is expected to start despite recent fitness concerns.
Ruben Amorim’s side face a defensive crisis with Lisandro Martínez (knee), Jonny Evans (muscle), and Matthijs de Ligt (ankle) sidelined. Amad Diallo (ankle) and Toby Collyer (leg) are also out. Goalkeeper André Onana, culpable for costly errors in Thursday’s 2-2 Europa League draw against Lyon, has been dropped, paving the way for Altay Bayindir’s Premier League debut. Luke Shaw is fit but unlikely to start, while Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo could feature after recent substitute appearances.
Newcastle’s recent form of four consecutive wins, contrasts sharply with United’s struggles (three games without a victory). The Magpies’ midfield trio of Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton has been pivotal, dominating transitions and creating chances for in-form attackers Isak and Harvey Barnes. With 20 league goals this season, Isak’s movement could exploit United’s makeshift defense, which features 20-year-old Willy Kambwala (Yoro) and Victor Lindelöf.
For United, Amorim’s focus on Thursday’s Europa League return leg against Lyon may lead to rotation. Joshua Zirkzee, who scored against Lyon, could replace Rasmus Højlund up front, while Bruno Fernandes’ creativity remains critical. However, the absence of Onana—replaced by Bayindir—adds uncertainty to a backline that has conceded 41 goals this season.
Historically, Newcastle have dominated this fixture lately, winning four of their last five meetings. A victory here would mark their first league double over United since 1931.
With Champions League qualification on the line and home advantage, Newcastle are favorites to extend their winning streak. United’s defensive frailties and rotated lineup suggest they’ll struggle to contain the Magpies’ attacking momentum. Sofascore’s data highlights Newcastle’s 70% fan vote for a win, aligning with pundits’ expectations of a narrow home victory.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle United (4-3-3):
Pope; Trippier, Schär, Burn, Livramento; Guimarães, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Barne.
Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
Bayindir; Mazraoui, Lindelöf, Yoro; Dalot, Fernandes, Ugarte, Dorgu; Garnacho, Mount; Zirkzee
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