English Premier League: Fulham vs. Manchester United Preview – January 26, 2025
The English Premier League delivers another intriguing fixture as Fulham host Manchester United at Craven Cottage on Sunday, January 26, 2025. This clash pits a resilient Fulham side against a Manchester United team eager to maintain their top-four ambitions. With contrasting styles and plenty of narrative on offer, this game promises to be an entertaining spectacle.
Below is an in-depth preview covering event details, team news, possible lineups, the playing ground, head-to-head stats, and live-streaming options.
Event Details
Fixture: Fulham vs. Manchester United
Date: Sunday, January 26, 2025
Kick-Off Time: 14:00 GMT / 09:00 ET / 15:00 CET
Venue: Craven Cottage, London, England
Broadcast & Live Stream:
UK: BT Sport, Sky Sports Premier League
US: NBC Sports, Peacock Premium
Worldwide: Various regional broadcasters and live-streaming platforms
Team News
Fulham
Marco Silva’s Fulham have been punching above their weight this season, showcasing impressive defensive organization and a fluid counterattacking style. However, injuries and squad depth remain challenges for the London side.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Joรฃo Palhinha: Doubtful due to a minor ankle sprain.
Tim Ream: Suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards.
Willian: Likely to return after recovering from a muscle strain.
Key Players:
Aleksandar Mitroviฤ will lead the line, offering an aerial threat and physical presence. Andreas Pereira provides creativity from midfield, while Bernd Leno’s shot-stopping ability is crucial for Fulham’s defensive resilience.
Manchester United
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United have endured a mixed season, blending moments of brilliance with occasional inconsistency. With key players returning from injury, the Red Devils are expected to field a strong lineup.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Raphaรซl Varane: Doubtful due to a calf issue.
Antony: Out with a thigh injury.
Luke Shaw: Available after serving a suspension.
Key Players:
Marcus Rashford’s form in front of goal is pivotal, while Bruno Fernandes orchestrates play from midfield. Casemiro’s presence in defensive midfield adds balance, and Andrรฉ Onana provides confidence between the posts.
Possible Lineups
Fulham (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Bernd Leno
Defenders: Kenny Tete, Issa Diop, Tosin Adarabioyo, Antonee Robinson
Midfielders: Harrison Reed, Joรฃo Palhinha
Attacking Midfielders: Harry Wilson, Andreas Pereira, Willian
Forward: Aleksandar Mitroviฤ
Manchester United (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Andrรฉ Onana
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martรญnez, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw
Midfielders: Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Christian Eriksen
Forwards: Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hรธjlund, Jadon Sancho
Playing Ground: Craven Cottage
Fulham’s home ground, Craven Cottage, is one of the most iconic and historic stadiums in English football. Nestled by the River Thames, it offers a unique charm with a capacity of around 25,700. The close proximity of the fans to the pitch creates an intimate atmosphere that can be intimidating for visiting teams. Its compact nature, coupled with passionate home supporters, often brings out spirited performances from Fulham.
Head-to-Head
Total Matches: 86
Manchester United Wins: 55
Fulham Wins: 11
Draws: 20
Manchester United have dominated this fixture historically, with Fulham last securing a win against them in the Premier League back in 2009. In their last five meetings, United have won four, with one match ending in a draw. Fulham will aim to rewrite the script and deliver a memorable performance.
Match Preview
Fulham’s Tactics
Fulham are likely to adopt a pragmatic approach, emphasizing defensive solidity and quick transitions. Marco Silva will rely on his side’s ability to frustrate Manchester United with a compact defensive block. Andreas Pereira’s set-piece delivery and Mitroviฤ’s physical presence could prove vital against United’s defense, particularly during corners and free kicks.
Fulham’s wide players, Harry Wilson and Willian, will look to exploit spaces left by United’s attacking full-backs, aiming to deliver crosses into the box for Mitroviฤ.
Manchester United’s Strategy
Manchester United are expected to dominate possession, leveraging their technical quality in midfield and attacking depth. Bruno Fernandes will be central to their plans, linking play and creating opportunities for the front three. Casemiro’s ability to break up play will be crucial in stifling Fulham’s counterattacks.
United will likely deploy Marcus Rashford on the left to exploit Fulham’s right flank, using his pace and directness to stretch the defense. Rasmus Hรธjlund’s movement in the box will be key to breaking down Fulham’s resilient backline.
Key Battles
Aleksandar Mitroviฤ vs. Lisandro Martรญnez:
Mitroviฤ’s aerial prowess and physicality will test Martรญnez’s defensive capabilities. This duel could define how effectively Fulham can capitalize on set-piece opportunities.
Bruno Fernandes vs. Harrison Reed:
Fernandes’ creativity will be closely monitored by Reed, whose job will be to disrupt United’s playmaker and deny him time on the ball.
Marcus Rashford vs. Kenny Tete:
Rashford’s speed and dribbling ability pose a significant threat, but Tete’s defensive discipline will be crucial in containing United’s star forward.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Fulham Win: 6/1
Manchester United Win: 1/2
Draw: 3/1
Manchester United are clear favorites, but Fulham’s resilience at Craven Cottage could make it a closely contested affair. A 2-1 victory for Manchester United seems a likely outcome, though Fulham are more than capable of causing an upset.
How to Watch
United Kingdom:
BT Sport
Sky Sports Premier League
United States:
NBC Sports
Peacock Premium
Global:
Check local broadcasters or access official live-streaming platforms for coverage.
Conclusion
The clash between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage promises excitement, intensity, and high-quality football. While United’s superior squad depth and form make them favorites, Fulham’s home advantage and ability to grind out results cannot be underestimated.
For fans, this fixture represents the magic of the Premier League—a league where surprises are always on the cards. Tune in on January 26, 2025, to witness this captivating encounter!