The Premier League never fails to deliver and the Manchester United vs Bournemouth game is no exception. Two teams with different styles and ambitions come together for a cracking match. In this article we look at the details, history and implications of this one.
The Rivalry History
Manchester United and Bournemouth don’t have a long history but their recent meetings have produced some drama and excitement. Here are the highlights:
Bournemouth’s first Premier League win: In 2015 Bournemouth won their first ever Premier League game 2-1 against Manchester United and showed they could compete with the top teams.
Manchester United’s advantage: Historically Manchester United have been strong in this fixture, 5-2 in 2020 being a prime example of their attacking power.
Close games: Despite United’s overall dominance Bournemouth have given them a run for their money so this one is never a foregone conclusion. Rank Post
Manchester United: Form and Players
Red Devils on the rise
Manchester United under Erik ten Hag are on the up. They’re focusing on high intensity and creative football to get back to title challenging. Recent performances have shown:
A solid back four with Raphaël Varane and Lisandro Martínez.
Bruno Fernandes in midfield.
Marcus Rashford scoring. He’s been in great form.
Tactical Outlook
United will look to control the game and exploit the spaces in Bournemouth’s defence. They’ll look to dominate with quick transitions and wide play from the wingers Jadon Sancho and Antony.
Bournemouth: Spirit and underdogs
Cherries problems
Bournemouth under Andoni Iraola are punching above their weight in the Premier League. With limited resources compared to Manchester United they’ve shown spirit and tactical discipline. Recent highlights:
Dominic Solanke leading the line.
A midfield motor with Philip Billing providing creativity and dynamo.
A solid back four with Lloyd Kelly at the back.
Tactics
Bournemouth’s game plan is to defend compact and counter quickly. Frustrating the opposition and scoring from set pieces could be the key to this one.
United’s attack vs Bournemouth’s defence
One of the key aspects of this game will be how Bournemouth’s defence deals with Manchester United’s attacking intensity. Watch out for:
Marcus Rashford vs Lloyd Kelly: Rashford’s speed and finishing will test Kelly’s defending.
Bruno Fernandes vs Jefferson Lerma: The midfield battle between Fernandes’ creativity and Lerma’s industry will dictate the pace of the game.
Predictions and what it means
United’s hopes
A United win would keep them in the hunt for a top four and European football. It would also ‘build upon what they have been doing in order to carry that through to the rest of the season.
Bournemouth’s Survival Battle
Every point is important for Bournemouth in their battle against the drop down to the English Premier League. A draw or victory saturation at Old Trafford does inject a large amount of morale and a statement regarding intent into the team’s activity.
Conclusion
I expect a closely fought match between Manchester United and Bournemouth to be both well contested and full of flair. Therefore, when both the teams are on the field expected there would be so many incidents which would lead to the drama on the field. Can United overwhelm Bournemouth on the day or will the Cherries pull off another upset on the contrary? The only sure thing about this game is that it will be for the books.