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Teams in full
Bournemouth (expected lineup 4-2-3-1): Arrizabalaga; Smith, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Scott, Adams; Semenyo, Kluivert, Ouattara; Evanilson.
Substitutes: Dennis, Araujo, Senesi, Soler, Hill, Cook, Brooks, Tavernier, Jebbison.
Manchester United (expected lineup 3-4-2-1): Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro; Dorgu, Casemiro, Fernandes, Shaw; Garnacho, Mainoo; Højlund.
Substitutes: Heaton, Lindelof, Fredericson, Evans, Amass, Ugarte, Eriksen, Mount, Obi.
Teams in brief: Bournemouth unchanged
Bournemouth faced a setback last weekend, ending their match against Crystal Palace in a goalless draw, despite playing against a reduced opposition. Coach Iraola has opted to maintain his squad rather than make changes after this result.
Teams in brief: Shaw starts
After a challenging spell with injuries, Luke Shaw returns to the starting lineup under coach Amorim. This marks his first appearance this season and his return to the pitch since last playing for England in the Euro final and for United against Luton 14 months ago.
Shaw’s positioning remains uncertain; while Amorim prefers him at center-back, Diogo Dalot’s injury opens a slot at wing-back. This role may be filled by Noussair Mazraoui if Shaw stays central, or by Shaw with Dorgu reverting to the right flank. Shaw’s inclusion could offer more creativity.
Preamble
Good afternoon and welcome to an anticipated matchup. Bournemouth, previously in contention for Champions League spots as they stood fifth at Christmas, and Manchester United, who were close to the top three upon Amorim’s arrival, find themselves in a mid-table clash now, with Bournemouth currently at 10th and United at 15th. The spotlight is on whether Bournemouth can achieve a rare double over United, having previously won the reverse fixture 3-0 despite United having slightly better expected goals (xG) statistics.
Both teams have struggled lately, sharing similar poor records in their last ten league matches: two wins, three draws, and five losses each, with Bournemouth scoring 11 goals and United netting 10. The only teams performing worse are those facing relegation.
Statistically, Bournemouth holds a favorable chance of victory at 54% compared to United’s 22%. Coach Iraola acknowledges that while the prior match didn’t reflect the scoreline, United’s ability to recover from a slump is notable. Bournemouth presents a challenge with their solid defensive setup and efficiency in counter-attacks, traits that could trouble United’s formation.
For the traveling United supporters, the day carries added significance, potentially marking the last time they will be the sole English club with 20 league titles as they face Liverpool shortly thereafter. This looming change may bring a reflective edge to their rivalry, revealing unexpected parallels between the clubs as they continue their passionate exchanges on and off the field.
Source
www.theguardian.com