Man United v Newcastle: Line-ups, stats and preview
Man United v Newcastle preview
Manchester United can move up to fifth place in the Premier League with a victory over Newcastle at home on Friday – although manager Ruben Amorim has openly discussed the significance of the absence of Bruno Fernandes after the captain was taken off at half-time during their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa last Sunday.
The United playmaker is dealing with a muscle injury, and Amorim elaborated on how the Portugal international impacts the team beyond his creative abilities.
“At every set-piece, he is the one who is leading the team,” stated Amorim. “He comprehends every position on the pitch and notices every aspect.
“When substituting him, he is usually the one guiding the others on their positioning.
“I have confidence that we can win any match. While we face some challenges, even with several players unavailable, I believe in the squad and have faith in my players. If we maintain our focus, we can secure a win.”
Newcastle has secured one win from their last four league fixtures but will clinch eighth place with a victory and can leapfrog their rivals into seventh if they secure a win by a margin greater than one goal.
“Consistent victories and forming winning streaks have been difficult for us this season,” remarked manager Eddie Howe, who expressed that he was “very pleased” with the “majority” of his team’s 2-2 draw against Chelsea at home last Saturday.
“Statistically, (United) show a lot more strength than last year. They’ve experienced significant improvement in their overall performances.
“That is reflected in what you observe. They’ve been competitive, and offensively, they possess some strong threats.
“This will present us with a challenging match. It’s a great opportunity during the Christmas period to appreciate the significance of these encounters. The atmosphere will be exceptional.”
Manchester United v Newcastle team news
Casemiro returns from suspension to bolster United’s midfield, where academy talent Jack Fletcher made his senior debut against Villa, with Kobbie Mainoo sidelined due to injury and centre-back Lisandro Martinez stepping in for Bruno.
Centre-backs Harry Maguire (thigh) and Matthijs de Ligt (back) are ruled out due to short-term injuries. Midfielder Amad Diallo is away with the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, while winger Noussair Mazraoui is with Morocco and forward Bryan Mbeumo is representing Cameroon.
First-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope may return from a groin injury for Newcastle, but defenders Dan Burn (ribs/punctured lung), Kieran Trippier (hamstring), Sven Botman (back), and Jamaal Lascelles (knee) remain out of action due to injuries.
Forward William Osula is dealing with an ankle issue, and full-back Tino Livramento might be nearing the resumption of training following a knee injury.
“We’re looking to get full details and are hopeful it’s not serious, enabling him to get back to training soon,” Howe said regarding Livramento. “Fingers crossed it’s good news. There’s a chance.”
Man United v Newcastle predicted line-ups
Manchester United starting XI: Senne Lammens, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro, Patrick Dorgu, Mason Mount, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha
Newcastle starting XI: Aaron Ramsdale, Fabian Schar, Malick Thiaw, Emil Krafth, Lewis Hall, Bruno Guimaraes, Lewis Miley, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, Anthony Gordon
How to watch Man United v Newcastle: TV channel, live online stream
Kick-off on Friday is scheduled for 20:00 GMT (15:00 ET / 12:00 PT), with live coverage in the UK available on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and Sky Sports Ultra.
On Now TV, Sky Sports is priced at £14.99 for a daily pass, £28 per month on a 12-month plan, or £34.99 monthly without a contract.
Sky Sports subscriptions offer access to all 12 live Sky Sports channels and Sky Sports+, which provides live streaming and a dedicated channel.
Streaming can be accessed on a wide range of devices through the Sky GO app.
Published: 2025-12-25 08:00:00
source: www.101greatgoals.com
