English Premier League : Wolves vs Man United preview 12/26/2024
Manchester United is set to face Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day, December 26, 2024, in a Premier League fixture that holds significant implications for both teams. The match will take place at Molineux Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 PM GMT.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, December 26, 2024
Kickoff Time: 5:30 PM GMT
Venue: Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton
Broadcast Information: The match will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime in the UK. In the United States, it will be available on USA Network and streamed via Fubo.
WOLVES
Team News
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Under the guidance of new manager Vítor Pereira, Wolves are striving to climb out of the relegation zone. Their recent 3-0 victory over Leicester City has provided a much-needed confidence boost. Defender Rayan Aït-Nouri returns from suspension and is expected to be available for selection. However, the team continues to cope with injuries to key players, including Mario Lemina and Pablo Sarabia, both sidelined with calf issues, and long-term absentees Boubacar Traoré, Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, and Yerson Mosquera.
SPORTING NEWS
Manchester United
Managed by Rúben Amorim, Manchester United is experiencing a turbulent period, currently positioned 13th in the Premier League standings. The team is eager to rebound from consecutive defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Bournemouth. Defensive stalwart Matthijs de Ligt is anticipated to return after recovering from illness, which kept him out of the recent losses. However, the squad faces injury concerns with Mason Mount (thigh), Luke Shaw (undisclosed), and Victor Lindelöf (muscle) all unavailable until January. Additionally, forward Marcus Rashford remains absent amid ongoing transfer speculation.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Possible Lineups
Wolverhampton Wanderers (3-4-3):
Goalkeeper: Jose Sá
Defenders: Matt Doherty, Hugo Bueno, Toti Gomes
Midfielders: Nélson Semedo, João Gomes, André Gomes, Rayan Aït-Nouri
Forwards: Goncalo Guedes, Matheus Cunha, Sander Larsen
Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper: André Onana
Defenders: Lamine Yoro, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans
Midfielders: Noussair Mazraoui, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Diogo Dalot
Attacking Midfielders: Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes
Forward: Rasmus Hojlund
Playing Ground
Molineux Stadium, the home of Wolverhampton Wanderers, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history. With a seating capacity of approximately 32,000, it provides an intimate yet electrifying environment for Premier League fixtures. The stadium's design ensures that fans are close to the action, contributing to a formidable home advantage for Wolves.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Manchester United has held the upper hand in encounters with Wolverhampton Wanderers. In their last eight Premier League meetings, United has secured seven victories. The most recent clash saw Manchester United triumph with a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford. However, with Wolves' recent managerial change and a morale-boosting win against Leicester, they will be determined to challenge this trend and secure a positive result on home turf.
Live Stream
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime, accessible via subscription. In the United States, the game will be available on USA Network, with streaming options on Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. International viewers should check local listings for broadcast availability.
WOLVES
Match Preview
This Boxing Day fixture presents a critical opportunity for both teams to alter their current trajectories. Wolves, buoyed by their recent victory and the tactical adjustments of Vítor Pereira, will aim to exploit Manchester United's defensive vulnerabilities. The return of Rayan Aït-Nouri adds stability to their defensive lineup, while the attacking trio of Guedes, Cunha, and Larsen poses a significant threat to United's backline.
Manchester United, under the stewardship of Rúben Amorim, is under pressure to deliver a cohesive and commanding performance. The potential return of Matthijs de Ligt could bolster a defense that has appeared fragile in recent outings. Midfield dynamo Bruno Fernandes will be pivotal in orchestrating play and providing service to the frontline, where Rasmus Højlund seeks to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Key Players to Watch
Wolverhampton Wanderers:
Matheus Cunha: The Brazilian forward has been instrumental in Wolves' attacking endeavors, with nine goals and three assists in the Premier League this season. His ability to find space and clinical finishing make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Manchester United:
Bruno Fernandes: As the creative fulcrum of United's midfield, Fernandes has contributed four goals and five assists this season. His vision and passing range are crucial in breaking down organized defenses, and his leadership on the pitch will be essential in guiding United through this challenging period.
Tactical Analysis
Wolves are expected to deploy a 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing width and quick transitions. The wing-backs, Semedo and Aït-Nouri