Newcastle vs Manchester United
Premier League
Saturday
2nd December 2023
St James’ Park
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Premier League fixture between Newcastle and Manchester United.
Newcastle vs Manchester United: Preview
Newcastle form analysis
The Magpies were enjoying an excellent run of form until recent back-to-back defeats stalled their momentum. On October 21st, Eddie Howe’s side thrashed Crystal Palace 4-0 at home with goals from Jacob Murphy, Alexander Gordon, Sean Longstaff and Callum Wilson. They then battled to a 2-2 draw away at Wolves on October 28th, twice going ahead through Wilson (1 pen). However, surprise defeats followed, losing 1-0 at home to league leaders Arsenal before a 2-0 loss away at relegation-threatened Bournemouth.
Most recently though, Newcastle returned to winning ways in spectacular fashion, crushing Chelsea 4-1 at St James’ Park on November 25th. Goals from Alexander Isak, Joelinton and Gordon sealed the impressive victory after the Blues had briefly levelled through Raheem Sterling. Overall, Newcastle have played some outstanding attacking football during this period. The likes of Wilson, Migel Almiron and Gordon all look dangerous going forward. But keeping things tight at the back remains crucial to sustaining their top four push under Howe this season.
Manchester United form analysis
Manchester United’s form has improved recently, with three wins and two defeats from their last five matches. On October 22nd, United came from behind to beat Sheffield United 2-1 away after goals from Scott McTominay and Diogo Dalot. However, a difficult week followed with a 3-0 home loss in the Manchester derby, outclassed by rivals City. United responded well though, grinding out a late 1-0 win away at Fulham on November 4th thanks to Bruno Fernandes’ last-gasp strike.
Erik Ten Hag’s side then secured a narrow 1-0 home victory over Luton Town in the FA Cup a week later, with Victor Lindelöf scoring the only goal. Most recently on November 26th, United produced their best performance of the season to beat Everton 3-0 away from home. Goals from youngster Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford’s penalty and Anthony Martial sealed an impressive win. With the likes of Rashford, Martial and Antony hitting form, United are starting to carry a significant attacking threat. If Ten Hag can sure up some defensive fragilities, a sustained title push could be on.
