The match between Bournemouth and Manchester United on Sunday presents an intriguing scenario for both teams. Bournemouth, currently positioned 8th in the Premier League standings with 49 points, seeks to secure a European spot. Their recent form has been commendable, remaining unbeaten in their last three encounters against United, including a decisive 3-0 victory earlier this season at Old Trafford . Meanwhile, Manchester United's performance has waned significantly; they sit at 14th with only 38 points and have suffered three losses in their last four league matches . This context suggests that Bournemouth holds a statistical advantage going into the fixture.
Their frustrating 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace last weekend saw them reach 49 points in the Premier League this season, their highest ever tally in a campaign in the competition, surpassing their 48 in 2023-24.
If they avoid defeat on Sunday, they could become the 40th different side to achieve a 50+ point season in the competition, with the last side to reach that tally for the first time being Brentford in 2022-23 (59).
Bournemouth have bounced back from their stumble in February and March, helped in part by their staunch defence in recent weeks.
Bournemouth possible starting lineup: Kepa; Smith, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Cook, Adams; Semenyo, Kluivert, Ouattara; Evanilson
Manchester United possible starting lineup: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro; Dorgu, Ugarte, Fernandes, Amass; Mount, Garnacho; Hojlund
There's hope that Matthijs de Ligt will be fit for the first leg in Spain, but the Dutchman is unlikely to play a part this weekend. Lisandro Martinez, Amad Diallo, Toby Collyer and Ayden Heaven are all sidelined. Diogo Dalot is a fresh injury concern for the visitors and could even miss the remainder of the season.
Despite a narrow defeat to Wolves via a Sarabia free-kick, Man Utd's Premier League struggles could be justified by a Europa League win. However, with United focused on Thursday's game, a refreshed and ambitious Bournemouth, still chasing European qualification, are likely to win at home on Sunday.Bournemouth's attacking prowess, spearheaded by Solanke, poses a significant threat to a potentially weary United defence. Ten Hag might be tempted to rotate his squad, prioritizing recovery for the crucial Europa League tie. This could leave the likes of Maguire and co. vulnerable against Bournemouth's dynamic forward line. While United possess the individual brilliance to snatch a result, a lack of cohesion and fatigue could prove to be their undoing. Bournemouth, conversely, will be buzzing after their midweek victory and relishing the opportunity to leapfrog United in the table. A home win for the Cherries seems the more plausible outcome, further deepening the gloom surrounding Old Trafford.
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