Manchester United is looking to build on their impressive victories against Manchester City and Arsenal as they prepare to host Fulham at Old Trafford. The recent dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim and the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim manager until the season’s end seems to have rekindled the team’s performance, driving them into the top four of the Premier League standings. This turn of events has invigorated a previously disengaged fanbase, and the talented squad is beginning to fulfill their potential.
However, Carrick is urging caution as United faces a tricky home fixture against Fulham, who have collected eight points from their last five matches and won two of their previous three visits to Old Trafford, notably triumphing on penalties in last season’s FA Cup. The two teams played to a 1-1 stalemate in their previous encounter in August, where a missed penalty by Bruno Fernandes proved critical for United, setting the stage for their desire for a better result this time around.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, kicking off at 2 p.m. GMT (9 a.m. ET) at Old Trafford, with referee John Brooks overseeing proceedings.
In terms of head-to-head records over their last five meetings, both clubs have each secured two wins, with one draw reflecting a balanced rivalry. Presently, Manchester United is in a better spot with a recent form of two wins, two draws, and one loss, while Fulham’s performance shows two wins, one draw, and two losses.
From the United camp, Patrick Dorgu faces an extended absence due to a hamstring injury sustained against Arsenal, expected to keep him sidelined for approximately 10 weeks. Matheus Cunha is poised to step in for him on the left wing. The team will also continue to cope without Matthijs de Ligt while benefitting from the solid form of center-backs Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez.
On the opposite side, Fulham’s new signing Oscar Bobb will be absent due to injury, alongside Sasa Lukić and Rodrigo Muniz. However, there’s hope that Kenny Tete will return to the matchday squad after resuming training. Fulham will look to talisman Harry Wilson, who has been in excellent form with nine goal contributions in his last 10 matches.
As for a prediction, given the positive uptick in form under Carrick and a solidified defense, it’s reasonable to expect Manchester United to continue their winning streak. While Fulham poses a threat with capabilities for counterattacking play, it may be challenging for them to contend with the revitalized Red Devils in front of a vibrant home crowd.
The prediction for the match stands at Manchester United 3, Fulham 1. This upcoming clash is generating excitement as fans hope to see their team capitalize on their current momentum.