Manchester United welcome Southampton to Old Trafford this evening with cautious optimism around the club.
After a tough start under Ruben Amorim, improved performances at Liverpool and Arsenal have raised hope of an upturn in fortunes.
At the weekend, United survived being reduced to 10 men to dump Arsenal out of the FA Cup in North London. Diogo Dalot’s dismissal saw the Red Devils play for an hour – including extra time – at a disadvantage but Amorim’s side triumphed on penalties at the Emirates. That result followed a spirited draw at Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Matchday at the Theatre of Dreams 🏟️✨#MUFC || #MUNSOU
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 16, 2025
Amorim has insisted he will learn more about his players when Southampton arrive in the North West tonight. The Saints are bottom of the table, after the worst-ever start to a Premier League campaign. United will be under pressure to take the points, after just one win in their last seven league games.
Manchester United vs Southampton – Predicted lineup and team news
Manchester United team news
Dalot’s red card at Arsenal means the full-back will miss tonight’s game. Tyrell Malacia could come in at left wing-back, while Alejandro Garnacho is another option to replace Dalot with Amad Diallo dropping into a deeper role.
Marcus Rashford has recovered from his illness though the 27-year-old’s involvement is unclear. Rashford is keen to leave Manchester United this month and his representatives have held talks with AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund. He has not featured since being dropped from the squad for the Manchester Derby last month.
Joshua Zirkzee, who scored the decisive kick in the shootout win at Arsenal, is pushing to replace Rasmus Hojlund at centre-forward. The latter has just two Premier League goals this season and none in his last five.
Manchester United predicted lineup
Manchester United predicted XI: Onana; De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Amad, Ugarte, Mainoo, Mazraoui; Garnacho, Fernandes; Hojlund.
When is Manchester United vs Southampton?
Manchester United host Southampton in the Premier League on Thursday 16th January 2025. Kick-off at Old Trafford is 20:00 GMT.
What TV channel is Manchester United vs Southampton?
In the UK, the game will be televised live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate.
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See more – Amorim says Southampton test an important gauge for Man United