Manchester United are looking to revive their flailing European ambitions when they host Newcastle United in their penultimate game of the season. After 36 matches, United are eighth three points and two places behind Newcastle, who are also chasing European football. In the context of achieving European football from their league placing, United are on a massive disadvantage. They have 54 points and an inferior goal difference in a congested race. Their 1-0 loss to Arsenal on Sunday compounded their misery, United suffering their 14th loss in the league this season. Manchester United have another avenue to European football, as they are set to play the FA Cup final. However, that isn’t a guarantee as they face a Manchester City side that has dominated them lately. Talking of domination, Newcastle United have also dominated United in their recent meetings. In the reverse fixture at St. James Park, Manchester United lost 1-0. That was their second meeting this season, Newcastle having won 3-0 in the first, a League Cup game.
Newcastle United have already triumphed at Old Trafford this season and they will be confident of a repeat. In the three matches against United after their loss in last season’s League Cup final, Newcastle have emerged winners. The Magpies have only suffered one defeat in the last six matches against Manchester United. This game holds a lot of importance in their season, apart from just the three points on offer. Though slim, Newcastle United are still in with a chance to finish fifth. With a superior goal difference, they will be looking to win their final two games and hope Tottenham Hotspur lose both remaining matches. Unbeaten in their last three matches, Newcastle will feel as favorites taking on a side with just two wins in the last 11 league games. Eddie Howe’s side will however look to improve on their last result, a 1-1 draw at home to Brighton. Their 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace in April is their only defeat in eight matches; they won five times in that run.
Manchester United have been off-color in their recent matches. By all measures, this will not be an easy outing. Newcastle United have a chance to book European football and will be gunning for three points here. With an eye on the FA Cup final and dealing with many injuries, United may feel the need to rest players. That should give Newcastle an upper hand as they seek a fourth straight win in this fixture. Our prediction for Manchester United v Newcastle United is for Newcastle United to win.