Crystal Palace vs Manchester United Preview
By: Babatunde Ajibade (Manchester United correspondent) Twitter: ollyzjinx01 Instagram: sir_ajirowo01
Manchester United appear to be hitting their stride after a dominant 3-0 victory over a 10-man Southampton and a resounding 7-0 demolition of Barnsley. With form and confidence on the rise, their next challenge comes against Crystal Palace—a side that handed United a humbling 4-0 defeat the last time they met. However, with key players returning from injury and a renewed energy within the squad, Manchester United head into this fixture with momentum on their side. The much-anticipated clash at Selhurst Park is set for Saturday, 21st September 2024. While some fans have labeled this a “Revenge Match,” for many, it’s simply a “Must Win.”
United’s recent performances have been buoyed by standout displays from their top players. Goals from De Ligt, Rashford, and rising star Garnacho secured the comfortable win against Southampton, while Rashford, Garnacho, and Eriksen netted braces in the 7-0 victory over Barnsley. Antony’s well-taken penalty rounded off the scoring in a dominant display. With this form, the Red Devils will be keen to carry their momentum forward. Manager Erik ten Hag is likely to maintain a similar lineup to the one used against Southampton, given that many key players were rested midweek.
One selection dilemma might be the midfield, where Ugarte could get the nod over Eriksen despite the Dane’s midweek heroics. Palace’s physical and combative style will demand energy and resilience in the middle of the park, a department where United have struggled at times. Youngster Kobbie Mainoo, already on three yellow cards this season, has shown his struggles with ball recovery, which could sway Ten Hag’s decision in favor of Ugarte’s physical presence.
Ten Hag downplayed any lessons from the previous loss to Palace, attributing the result to an incomplete squad, a comment that raises some concerns given Crystal Palace’s strong form this season. The Dutchman will need to put pride aside and field his strongest team to ensure United can navigate what could be a tricky encounter.
Much attention will be on Marcus Rashford, who, after a difficult start to the 2024/25 season, has shown signs of returning to his best. After going goalless in the first month of the campaign, he has responded with back-to-back impressive performances. As the focal point of United’s attack, Rashford will be under pressure to deliver once again and continue his resurgence.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace will be eager to register their first Premier League win after a slow start to the season. Despite struggling in the league, with two consecutive London derby defeats and back-to-back draws, Palace have excelled in the EFL Cup. A 2-1 midweek win over Queens Park Rangers and an earlier 4-0 thrashing of Norwich City in the Cup have highlighted their potential. Manager Oliver Glasner will be aiming to carry this cup form into the league as Palace face a Manchester United side that they convincingly defeated twice last season with a combined score of 5-0.
Palace’s attacking quality is undeniable, and they have the firepower to trouble United’s defense, as they’ve done in previous encounters. For Manchester United, this match represents a crucial opportunity to solidify their growing form, while for Palace, it’s a chance to finally get their season on track.
Manchester United record against Crystal Palace:
| Games won: | 41 |
| Games drawn: | 13 |
| Games lost: | 12 |
Team News:
(As at today 21/09/2024)
Crystal Palace: Chalobah, Doucoure, Riad and Franca will miss this match.
Manchester United: United are still without Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, and Tyrell Malacia.
Prediction:
I don’t expect an easy win, but I hope Palace won’t use us to kickstart their season.
Crystal Palace 1- 2 Manchester United.
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