Manchester United welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford on Monday, December 15, 2025, in a Premier League clash that could shape the Reds’ top-four ambitions. United come into the game on the back of a strong run of form, while Bournemouth look to continue their fight against relegation, Softfootball reports.
United arrive at Old Trafford following a morale-boosting 4-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) on December 8, 2025, a result that underscored their attacking depth and defensive improvements.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, come into the game with confidence after a hard-fought 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest, extending their mini-revival in the league and proving they are capable of taking points off top sides.
Bournemouth fans have a reason to remember this fixture fondly. The club shared a post on their official X handle, marking the anniversary of their first-ever win against Manchester United.
This historic victory adds an extra layer of motivation for the visitors as they aim to challenge United once again at Old Trafford.
United assistant coach, who spoke to the media in Erik ten Hag’s absence, made it clear the focus remains internal. He stressed that the squad are concentrating on their own performances rather than looking at league standings.
Bournemouth manager andoni iraola expects a tough test but believes his team can cause an upset. He highlighted the need for organisation, pressing, and efficient finishing, the same ingredients that have kept Bournemouth competitive in recent weeks.
Team News
For the match against Bournemouth, Manchester United will be missing defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire, and Benjamin Šeško’s return from injury is still doubtful due to a recent illness. The three AFCON-bound players, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui, have not yet confirmed their availability.
Lewis Cook will miss Bournemouth owing to suspension, and Ryan Christie and Ben Gannon-Doak are out with injuries. Marcos Senesi’s participation will rely on a late fitness test prior to Monday’s match, and Veljko Milosavljevic is also ruled out.
Possible Lineups
Manchester United (likely 3‑4‑2‑1):
Lammens; Mazraoui, Yoro, Shaw; Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Cunha. Maguire and De Ligt are definitely out injured, while Sesko is doubtful after illness. United are also waiting on the availability of AFCON‑bound trio Mazraoui, Amad and Mbeumo.
Bournemouth (likely 4‑2‑3‑1):
Petrovic; Smith, Diakite, Senesi, Truffert; Scott, Adams; Tavernier, Kluivert, Semenyo; Evanilson. Bournemouth will miss Lewis Cook (suspended) and others like Christie and Ben Gannon‑Doak are still sidelined; Senesi and Milosavljevic remain doubts pending fitness tests.
SoftFootball’s Prediction
United’s record at Old Trafford is formidable, and their attacking options are among the league’s best, but Bournemouth’s organisation and counter-attacking threat make this a contest worth watching. Expect a competitive game with chances at both ends, though quality may tell in the final stages.
