Old Trafford plays host to an exciting Premier League matchup today between Manchester United and Aston Villa. Manchester United have not lost at home in the top-flight in 14 games and a win would put them closer to securing Champions League qualification. However, their momentum was disrupted when they carelessly threw away a two-goal lead at Tottenham on Thursday night. Meanwhile, Villa is targeting a first League double over United since 1954-55 after their 3-1 victory at home back in September that was shortly followed by defeat in the Carabao Cup.
Villa has one of the in-form strikers in the country, Ollie Watkins, who has scored 11 goals in his last 14 appearances. They are unbeaten in ten games, with eight wins in that run of form, sitting level on points with Spurs in sixth and six points behind United, having played two matches more. Villa also has European qualification in their sights, and they will be looking to upset United today.
However, unrest and takeover tensions among United supporters form the backdrop of this game at Old Trafford, with the fans holding another protest march in an effort to force through a sale. There is a divide among fans when it comes to who the ideal new owners should be, with some preferring the 100% takeover by Sheikh Jassim and others wanting United fan Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the next owner. For the players and the coach, this may serve as a distraction, but they will have to put that aside and focus on the task at hand.
The recent history between these two clubs means that goals are almost guaranteed this afternoon. United has not beaten Villa in the Premier League since the 2020/21 season, and they may find it tough again today. Our prediction is for an entertaining score draw and an enjoyable 90 minutes for the neutrals.
Overall, today’s game promises to be an exciting clash between two high-flying teams. Manchester United may have a slight edge, playing at home, but Villa will be a tough opponent. Hoping for a peaceful protest and for both teams to put on a great display of football.