Manchester United host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday as Rúben Amorim’s side look to build some momentum after an impressive victory over rivals Manchester City last time out.
By Matt Smith
The Cherries have been a bit of a surprise package this season, currently sitting in eighth place in the table, and United are still getting used to a new era under Amorim.
The Cherries got the better of United last season
In this fixture last season, also played in December, Bournemouth came away with a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford. The last time the two sides met, a 2-2 draw was played out at the Vitality Stadium, with Bruno Fernandes grabbing a brace for the Red Devils away from home.
In the Premier League era, United have nine wins against Bournemouth. They’ve drawn on two occasions, while the Cherries have picked up three victories.
Mount set for a spell on the treatment table
Amorim has confirmed that Mason Mount is set for a spell on the treatment table after picking up an injury against Manchester City, with the former Chelsea man likely to be out for ‘several weeks’.
Marcus Rashford was omitted from United’s last two fixtures due to a technical decision from Amorim, so it will be interesting to see whether he makes this one.
Amad the star of the show
Amad Diallo’s form has picked up drastically under Amorim, with the Portuguese manager showing immense faith in the youngster. After stealing the limelight against Man City, Amad picked up another goal and an assist against Tottenham in the EFL Cup this week.
The 22-year-old has been a standout star under Amorim so far, quickly becoming undroppable in the Premier League. Amad has produced eight goals and assists combined in the Premier League this season from just nine starts.
No fresh injury concerns for Iraola
Andoni Iraola has confirmed that it’s likely to be a ‘very similar’ squad to face United as we saw against West Ham United on Monday.
Enes Ünal came off the bench to score a superb equaliser against the Hammers, so he could be pushing for a starting place on Sunday.
Bournemouth creating chances at will
Bournemouth have been one of the most exciting teams to watch in the Premier League this season, creating 32.9 expected goals (xG), with only Chelsea managing more.
The Cherries have been producing chances all over the pitch, with the front three behind Evanilson – Dango Ouattara, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo last time out – all providing a strong threat in the final third. Keeping the Bournemouth trio quiet will be Amorim’s biggest task on Sunday afternoon.
Prediction
Amorim’s side have shown signs of inconsistency and teething problems since his arrival, as expected, and Bournemouth will be looking to capitalise.
United’s last four games have seen both teams score, while Bournemouth have hit the back of the net in every match since early October. We’re going for a lively score draw at Old Trafford on Sunday.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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