Manchester United welcome West Ham to Old Trafford on Thursday, in what already feels like a season-shaping contest for both sides. United are trying to stay on track for European qualification after their dramatic 2-1 comeback win at Crystal Palace, which SoftFootball covered.
Meanwhile, West Ham arrive under pressure after their emotional 2-0 loss to Liverpool, reported by SoftFootball. The Red Devils also need to quickly forget their shocking home defeat to 10-man Everton, a game that raised serious questions about consistency. That result, which SoftFootball highlighted, still lingers among supporters.
United enter this match unbeaten in their last 17 midweek Premier League home games. Under Ruben Amorim, their form has steadied, with just one defeat in seven matches. Yet West Ham remain a tricky opponent.
They have won four of the last five league meetings, including last season’s stunning 2-0 victory at Old Trafford, ending a 16-match drought at the stadium. Historically, though, they have not won back-to-back league matches at Old Trafford since 1934.
West Ham sit just above the relegation zone, held up only by goals scored. Their away form has been flat, with no wins in their last four on the road, but they remain competitive in Thursday fixtures, losing just two of their last 13.
Joshua Zirkzee will be one to watch after ending his long scoring drought, while Jarrod Bowen aims to become the first West Ham player since Jermain Defoe to score in three straight league games against United.
Team News
United miss Harry Maguire and Benjamin Sesko, while Matheus Cunha is ready, as seen in a post shared by Manchester United on their official X account.
Check the post below:
West Ham are without Lucas Paqueta through suspension, and Crysencio Summerville faces a late test. Nuno Espírito Santo said in the press conference shared on West Ham’s official X account that he studies Man United, Ruben and their players to compete, exploit weaknesses, contain strengths and unleash what his team does best.
Watch the video below:
Possible Lineups
Manchester United: Lammens; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Shaw; Diallo, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Zirkzee.
West Ham: Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Diouf; Potts, Soucek; Bowen, Fernandes, Guilherme; Wilson.
SoftFootball’s Prediction
The Red Devils usually respond well after setbacks, and West Ham’s away struggles may continue here.
Prediction: Manchester United 2–0 West Ham.
