Fulham vs Manchester United Match Preview

Fulham head to Old Trafford on Friday night to face Manchester United in their opening match of the 2024/25 Premier League season. After a solid preseason, Marco Silva's men will be looking to start their campaign with a strong performance against Erik ten Hag’s side, who are also eager to get off to a flying start. Historically, United have been dominant at home, but Fulham's recent resurgence under Silva suggests this could be a more competitive encounter.

Form Guide

Both teams have had fairly solid preseason preparations, with Fulham securing good results whilst on tour during the summer and Man Utd getting some handy wins. If anything, Fulham have had the better results with Utd going down to Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City whilst conceding 8 goals in their last 4 games of preseason.

Head-to-Head Record

Fulham have struggled historically against Manchester United, especially at Old Trafford. However, the Cottagers will take confidence from their dramatic 2-1 win at Old Trafford in February 2024, where Alex Iwobi’s stoppage-time winner handed them a rare victory over the Red Devils.

Key Player Analysis

Bruno Fernandes Manchester United's captain remains the key creative outlet for the Red Devils. Fernandes’ vision and ability to pick out defence-splitting passes will pose a constant threat to Fulham’s defence. With his leadership on and off the ball, Fernandes will be central to United's hopes of breaking down Fulham's well-organised defensive lines.

Tactical Preview

Fulham are likely to sit deep and absorb pressure, looking to break quickly on the counter through the pace of Adama Traore on the right and Antonee Robinson on the left. United, under Ten Hag, will likely look to dominate possession and press high up the pitch, forcing Fulham into mistakes in dangerous areas. The midfield battle will be key and, with João Palhinha’s absence, can Sasa Lukic fill the void while Fulham look for a replacement?

Injuries and Suspensions

Fulham are fortunate to go into this season without any injuries and will have a full squad available for selection. Man Utd on the other hand have a large number of issues with a number of key players unavailable, especially in defence. Harry Maguire may be a late inclusive after a fitness test but there are clearly some issues that will need to be addressed by Ten Hag.

Predicted Lineups

• Fulham: Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Lukic, Pereira; Traore, Smith-Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz

  
  

• Manchester United: Onana; Dalot, Maguire, Evans, Martinez; Casemiro; Mainoo, Amad, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford

Jack's Top Tip

While Manchester United are the favourites at home, Fulham’s strong preseason and their recent win at Old Trafford will give them confidence. United’s injuries could level the playing field, but their home form is formidable. Luke Shaw's likely absence will potentially open space in behind for Adam Traore to exploit so Jack's Top Tip returns with very favourable odds!

Fun Facts

• Did You Know? Fulham’s victory at Old Trafford in February 2024 was their first away win against Manchester United in over a decade.

• Fun Fact: Fulham have won three of their last four Premier League opening day fixtures when playing on a Friday.

  
  

Shared Players