Manchester United welcome Newcastle to Old Trafford on Sunday, with the two teams separated by just a single point in their quests to crash the Top-4 party.
The Magpies arrive on the back of dominant wins against Brentford and Fulham, but this showdown presents a sterner test against a Man United side slowly improving under Erik ten Hag.
Expect an open, attacking game, with this new-look Newcastle team undaunted by their poor record at Old Trafford (one win in the last 50 years).
Check out our Manchester United vs. Newcastle picks and predictions to get ready for this Sunday, October 16 battle.
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Manchester United vs Newcastle best odds
Manchester United vs Newcastle picks and predictions
Manchester United and Newcastle have both taken steps forward this season, rebuilding confidence and getting the most out of their star-studded attacks. Sunday’s clash is set up to be an end-to-end thriller.
We’re expecting goals. The Red Devils have found the net in each of their last six Premier League games, with Marcus Rashford and new boy Antony (goals in his first three league games for the club) posing the biggest threats. Bruno Fernandes has only netted once this season but continues to find himself in scoring positions.
At the other end, Man United are still looking for their first home Premier League clean sheet of the season amid ongoing defensive lapses. Frequent changes at the center of the back four have not helped, and Raphael Varane may be a game-time decision on Sunday.
That’s enough to get the Newcastle attack salivating. Look for the visitors to take the game to United, just as they did against Manchester City in a 3-3 thriller in August. With nine goals in their last two games, Eddie Howe’s men are in prolific form and have goal threats all over the pitch.
Top-quality set-piece delivery is another reason to expect scoring chances. From Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernandes to Kieran Trippier, this matchup looks promising for goals from free-kicks and corners.
Based on what we have seen from United and Newcastle so far this season, attack is the best form of defense. I like the Over 2.5 goals paired with both teams to score.
My best bet: Over 2.5 and both teams to score (-105 at FanDuel)
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Manchester United vs Newcastle side analysis
Manchester United are favored to pick up the three points on Sunday, and it’s easy to see why. Despite inconsistent form overall, ten Hag’s men have produced some of their best football in big games at Old Trafford, beating Liverpool and Arsenal this season.
Ten Hag may shuffle his starting line-up after Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League win over Omonia Nicosia, but the in-form Antony and Rashford are expected to start. Christian Eriksen could return after a substitute role in midweek.
United will be without the suspended Scott McTominay as they try to win the midfield battle, while ten Hag is sweating on Varane’s fitness after an ankle injury. A victory here would be another step towards banishing the memories of the 6-3 Manchester derby humiliation.
After no midweek action, Newcastle will be well-rested and flying high after last weekend’s 5-1 win over Brentford. Though Alexander Isak is unavailable to lead the attack, other Magpies have proved ready to step up — Bruno Guimaraes and Miguel Almiron, in particular.
Keep in mind that Newcastle have lost only once in the Premier League this season (a last-gasp defeat at Anfield). Howe has instilled belief and grit in his squad.
Manchester United vs Newcastle Over/Under analysis
With no shortage of attacking quality on show, the Over offers good value here. Manchester United are gradually finding an identity in the final third and they piled up 13 shots on target on Thursday. If Rashford reverts to a central striker role this weekend, it could open up even more chances.
Newcastle pack a punch in attack too — and Old Trafford is no longer the fortress it once was. Visiting teams have greater ambitions now and Newcastle’s pace and movement should give the hosts fits on the counterattack.
Allan Saint-Maximin’s return from a hamstring injury last weekend boosts Newcastle’s attacking options. The skilled playmaker came off the bench for a brief cameo against Brentford but could feature from the start on Sunday.
Recent history also points to a busy day for goalkeepers. The teams have served up 21 goals over their past five meetings, including a 4-1 home victory for the Red Devils last season.
Manchester United vs Newcastle game info
| Location: | Old Trafford, Manchester, England |
| Date: | Sunday, October 16, 2022 |
| Time: | 9:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | USA Network |
Manchester United vs Newcastle key injuries
Manchester United: Raphael Varane D (Probable), Anthony Martial ST (Questionable), Harry Maguire D (Out).
Newcastle: Alexander Isak ST (Questionable), Matt Ritchie M (Questionable), Jonjo Shelvey M (Out).
Manchester United vs Newcastle weather
Mild conditions are expected in Manchester on Sunday afternoon. The forecast calls for sunny intervals and temperatures in the mid-50s, with a less than 15% chance of rain.
