Manchester United’s form has been lackluster, with just two wins in their last 11 Premier League outings, significantly denting their hopes for a top-six finish. Their recent efforts included a narrow 1-0 loss at home to Arsenal following a 4-0 drubbing by Crystal Palace. The Red Devils’ poor league run suggests they might struggle at home against a Newcastle side currently holding the sixth spot and sitting three points ahead of Erik ten Hag’s team.
United’s sole league victory since early March was a 4-2 triumph over the already relegated Sheffield United. Their recent record includes draws with Brentford, Bournemouth, and Burnley among their last eight games.
Defensive Woes at Old Trafford
Manchester United’s defensive struggles have been exacerbated by injuries, forcing Ten Hag to improvise by positioning Casemiro and Jonny Evans at the centre-back spots in their defeats to Arsenal and Palace. With key defenders aiming to return for the FA Cup final, the defensive setup against Newcastle might once again be makeshift unless rookie Willy Kambwala steps in.
Newcastle, on the other hand, come off a frustrating 1-1 draw with Brighton but had previously won five out of seven league games, including dominant victories with scores of 4-0, 5-1, and 4-1. With top scorer Alexander Isak, supported by Anthony Gordon and Callum Wilson, Newcastle could exploit United’s vulnerable defence.
Manchester United have managed just two clean sheets in their last 19 league matches, and given their recent form against Newcastle — losing the last three encounters without scoring — they look set to struggle again.
Magpies to Extend Their Good Form at 7/5
Newcastle’s recent record includes a comprehensive 3-0 win at Old Trafford in the EFL Cup earlier this season. Despite Bruno Fernandes’ return boosting United, Newcastle also welcomes back key players like Kieran Trippier, Miguel Almiron, and Joelinton, enhancing their squad depth.
Eddie Howe’s side needs to continue their winning streak to keep ahead of Chelsea in the race for sixth. They have a real chance to claim another victory at Old Trafford, where Brighton, Palace, Bournemouth, and Fulham have all secured wins this season.
However, considering both teams’ recent defensive records, a Newcastle win with both teams scoring seems plausible, with a 2-1 victory for Newcastle appearing a likely outcome for those looking at correct-score bets.
