United Beyond Manchester

December 9, 2023, held perhaps one of the worst losses Manchester United has suffered this season. At Old Trafford, the Reds were thrashed 3-0 by Bournemouth. On Saturday, United has an opportunity to repay the Cherries for the damaging loss earlier this season. Below, we preview the match and make our predictions for how it will play out.

Historical Highlight

Manchester United visited Vitality Stadium to begin Jose Mourinho’s era in August 2016. The Reds needed a result after losing at Bournemouth in the previous season. Before the half, Juan Mata put United ahead with a close-range finish. Anthony Martial starred in the second half as he assisted Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as Mourinho’s side picked up a 3-1 win to start the season. Ibrahimovic’s goal from outside the 18-yard box was the first for the club.

Current Form

How can Manchester United’s form even be described? Manchester United should have had six points from Chelsea and Brentford but only managed one after late collapses. United’s response was a tough point against Liverpool that may damage their title hopes. Manchester United need three points at Vitality Stadium as a confidence boost heading to Wembley.

Bournemouth lost in their previous match against Luton, as Carlton Morris scored in the 90th minute. The Cherries have had a few good performances recently, with wins over Crystal Palace and Everton. Dominic Solanke has been fantastic this season with 16 goals and will be a danger for United’s backline.

Team News

Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans will both have a chance to return at the weekend. Though Ten Hag may not rush either back, considering recent recurring injuries for both. Marcus Rashford picked up a knock but is expected to be available against Bournemouth.

Scott McTominay was added to the injury list this week and will be out for 2-3 weeks. This injury will likely mean more minutes for Mason Mount.

Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Victor Lindelof are out until at least May with their long-term injuries. Anthony Martial and Tyrell Malacia are also out.

Marcus Tavernier, Ryan Fredericks, and Luis Sinisterra are all at risk of missing out on the home side.

Predicted Starting XI

GK: Andre Onana

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire, Willy Kambwala, Diogo Dalot

Midfielders: Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes

Attackers: Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund, Antony

Match Prediction

Manchester United have too much quality to drop points in a fourth straight match. United will win 2-0, with Andre Onana picking up a much-deserved clean sheet. Rasmus Hojlund will return to the scoresheet, and Bruno Fernandes will grab another goal from the spot.

After a good performance against Liverpool, the center-back duo of Willy Kambwala and Harry Maguire will put together another quality defensive showing.

One Bold Prediction

A good performance against Bournemouth will earn Willy Kambwala a start against Coventry City in the FA Cup Semi-Final. Kambwala was not perfect against Liverpool, but he showed qualities that would make him a great choice for Wembley. Coventry City is a side that loves a cross, and Kambwala’s size and strength, alongside Maguire, could thwart their attacks. The Frenchman’s speed can also help to end any threat the Championship side poses on the break. Of course, Kambwala will need a good performance against Bournemouth first.

Drop your score predictions and lineups in the comments!