Bournemouth host Manchester United at the Vitality Stadium today at 2pm BST in a Premier League clash with contrasting motivations. The Cherries are eyeing European qualification, while United are grappling with a disappointing domestic campaign and focusing on their upcoming Europa League semi-final.
Match Preview
Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, sit eighth with 49 points, their highest-ever Premier League tally. A win today would bolster their bid for a historic European spot, especially with tough fixtures against Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester City looming. They are unbeaten in their last three league games, including a 3-0 victory over United at Old Trafford in December.
Manchester United, managed by Rúben Amorim, are enduring a torrid season, currently 14th with 38 points. They've won just two of their last ten league matches and are winless in their last four . Injuries have plagued the squad, and with a crucial Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao on the horizon, Amorim may rotate his lineup, potentially giving opportunities to younger players.
Team News
Bournemouth are expected to field an unchanged side, with striker Evanilson, who has four goals in his last six league matches, leading the attack.
Manchester United welcome back Luke Shaw to the starting lineup after a long injury layoff. However, they remain without key players like Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee, both out for the season.
Prediction
Given Bournemouth's solid home form and United's struggles, the Cherries are slight favourites. Statistical models give Bournemouth a 54.9% chance of victory . However, United's potential squad rotation and focus on European commitments could influence the outcome.
Prediction: Bournemouth 2-1 Manchester United
This match could see Bournemouth complete a league double over United, a feat not achieved since the 1933/34 season.