Manchester United are set to face Leicester City in the Carabao Cup fourth round at Old Trafford. This fixture sees United under interim manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy following the recent dismissal of Erik ten Hag.
Both teams will be aiming to secure progression in the Cup as they navigate challenging league campaigns. Here’s a closer look at both teams’ form, lineup predictions, and betting tips ahead of this midweek showdown.
Manchester United Recent Form
United have struggled to find consistent form this season, which led to Ten Hag’s sacking. With only three wins in their first nine Premier League games, their campaign has been marked by defensive frailties and goal-scoring inconsistencies.
Sunday’s loss to West Ham has heightened the need for a positive response, especially in front of home fans.
Injury and Team News
United will be missing key players, including Antony, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw.
Additionally, Noussair Mazraoui remains doubtful after a knock against West Ham. In the absence of regular centre-backs, Van Nistelrooy may opt for a reshuffled defence.
Last Manchester United Lineup
Here is how the team lined up for their last match:
Leicester City Recent Form
Leicester’s season has been a mixed bag as they fight to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
They come into this game following a loss to Nottingham Forest, though they previously managed two league wins against Bournemouth and Southampton. Manager Steve Cooper will be looking to stabilise his team’s form and make a cup run.
Injury and Team News
Leicester will be without striker Patson Daka due to an ankle injury, placing the goal-scoring duties on veteran Jamie Vardy. They will also miss Jannik Vestergaard and Hamza Choudhury through injuries, further testing their squad depth.
Last Leicester City Lineup
Here is how the team lined up for their last match:
Manchester United Player to Watch
Bruno Fernandes is set to play a pivotal role in breaking Leicester’s defensive lines with his passing vision and set-piece skills. His creativity could prove crucial in the absence of consistent forward contributions from United’s attacking players.
Leicester City Player to Watch
Jamie Vardy remains Leicester’s primary attacking threat. With Daka sidelined, Vardy’s pace and finishing ability will be essential if Leicester are to pull off an upset at Old Trafford.
Prediction
Given the form and home advantage, Manchester United are likely to come away with a narrow victory, despite Leicester’s resilience and especially with the expected new manager bump under van Nistelrooy.
Our Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Leicester City.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Manchester United to win – Given the managerial change and home advantage, United will be eager to secure a morale-boosting win.
Tip 2
Under 2.5 goals – Both teams have struggled in front of goal, and a low-scoring game is probable given United’s defensive setup.
Tip 3
Bruno Fernandes to have an assist – Fernandes is United’s primary playmaker and will likely be involved in any goal-scoring opportunities.
