Analyzing Manchester United’s Form: Manchester United faces a multitude of off-field distractions as they prepare to take on Brighton this weekend. In a tumultuous break, winger Antony had to sit out amid allegations of violence against three women in Brazil. Additionally, the club’s American owners’ hesitancy to sell the team added to the turmoil.
On the pitch, a bitter last-minute defeat to arch-rivals Arsenal in the opening four rounds handed United their second loss. With just 6 points in hand, HLV Erik ten Hag’s squad currently sits 11th in the Premier League standings. While the season is in its early stages, Ten Hag is aware that continuing to drop points will make it challenging for the Red Devils to compete for a top-four position.
United’s advantage lies in their home turf, where they boast an impressive track record. Despite less-than-convincing performances against Wolves (1-0) and Nottingham (3-2), the Red Devils secured two home wins at the beginning of the Premier League season. Notably, they collected more points at Old Trafford than any other team except Manchester City last season, though a highlight in that record was a 1-2 loss to Brighton.
Brighton’s Strengths: On the opposing side, Brighton continues to soar under the reign of Roberto de Zerbi. The Italian tactician has instilled a flexible, attractive attacking style, with their ball possession being the key. Brighton ranks second in average possession (63%) and leads in the number of shots taken (614) in the Premier League since De Zerbi took charge.
With 3 wins and 1 loss in their first 4 matches of the season, Brighton has accumulated 9 points, placing them 6th in the standings, just 3 points behind league leaders Manchester City. Based on their recent performances, De Zerbi’s squad poses a formidable challenge to United’s home winning streak.
Latest Injury Updates: Manchester United will be without Antony due to his suspension during the investigation. Luke Shaw is expected to be sidelined for at least 6 more weeks, while Raphael Varane hopes to return this month. Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, and Sofyan Amrabat are questionable for the match. Kobbie Mainoo, Tyrell Malacia, and Amad Traore are also unavailable.
Brighton’s young star Evan Ferguson is doubtful for the match, while former MU player Danny Welbeck races against time to make his return.
Expected Line-ups: MU (4-2-3-1): Onana; Dalot, Maguire, Lindelof, Wan-Bissaka; Casemiro, Eriksen; Bruno, Garnacho, Rashford; Hojlund Brighton (4-2-3-1): Steele; Veltman, Webster, Dunk, Estupinan; Gross, Gilmour; March, Lallana, Mitoma; Pedro
Bookmaker Odds: Total Goals: Recent matches involving Manchester United have been open and exciting, with 4 out of the last 7 games featuring at least 4 goals. Brighton’s Premier League matches this season have also witnessed a minimum of 4 goals in all 4 games.
Even Goals: 4 out of Manchester United’s last 6 matches have ended with an even number of goals. A similar pattern has occurred in 3 out of Brighton’s last 5 matches.
Corner Kicks: Both Manchester United and Brighton have been prolific in winning corners this season. In the Premier League, all 4 of United’s games have had 11 or more corner kicks, as have 6 out of their last 7 matches across all competitions. Brighton, too, has had at least 10 corner kicks in 5 out of their last 7 matches. Expect a corner-heavy game.
Expert Prediction: Ben Knapton, a data analysis expert at Betfair, stated, “There’s no denying Brighton’s recent dominance over MU, with 3 consecutive wins in the Premier League. However, HLV Erik ten Hag’s team has been in impressive form at home, and it won’t be easy for the visitors to leave with a victory.”
Golden Statistics: Opta’s supercomputer favors Manchester United, giving them a 46.4% chance of victory at home against Brighton.
Brighton has won 3 out of their last 4 Premier League matches against Manchester United. Only Liverpool and Manchester City have won 4 consecutive matches against Man United in the history of the competition.
Brighton boasts a better win rate against Manchester United than any other team in Premier League history (42%).
Score Prediction: The Asian handicap betting market shows Manchester United with a 0:1/4 handicap, the lowest odds when hosting Brighton, indicating that investors are not confident in United’s chances of winning. Given both teams’ recent form, this matchup is likely to end without a clear winner.
Prediction: 2-2
