Manchester United and Fulham kick off the 2024-2025 Premier League season this Friday, August 16th, at the illustrious Old Trafford. The last time they played, back in February, Fulham got the best of United, winning 2-1. Last season was very shaky for United as they finished eighth, tied on sixty points with Newcastle. It was one of their worst finishes in decades.
But a new campaign means new faces looking to make their mark. United dominated the transfer window this summer signing four new players who have definitely shown their worth in other leagues around Europe. United’s first signing, eighteen year old center-back Leny Yoro, joined from LOSC Lille for €62.00m. United’s front office knew where to improve from last season as their defense was one of the most vulnerable parts of their play. They conceded fifty-eight goals last campaign.
United’s next summer signing was twenty-three year old forward Joshua Zirkzee. He joined from Bologna for €42.50m. Just the other day, they inked two more players in right-back Noussair Mazraoui for €15.00m and center-back Matthijs de Ligt for €45.00m. Both defenders were sold from Bayern Munich. I honestly love all of these signings as they bring depth, experience, and composure to the squad; things they missed last season.
Due to Manchester United’s poor lack of form last year, Erik ten Hag was rumored to be sacked, but winning the FA Cup saved him. Supporters grew impatient with how things were looking by the end of the season; a common theme in Manchester as they are still chasing their former glory. Empires rise and fall in all aspects of life; especially sport.
But, I believe the 24/25 season for United can put them on the right track. They have all the pieces: an experienced manager and players, up and coming stars, exciting transfers, a front office that is on the rise for the better, and a huge fanbase. I would not be surprised if United once again get their hands on more silverware this year.
Fulham are aiming to post consecutive away victories against Manchester United for the very first time. Finishing thirteenth last season and trying to rebuild following the summer exits of Tosin Adarabioyo, Joao Palhinha, and Tim Ream, it will be no easy feat. Marco Silva’s side was often been impressive at Craven Cottage last season, but somewhat flaky on the road.
Losing their best player in Palhinha, a solid defensive midfielder, has its consequences. I could see Fulham with another mid-table finish. But the signs are looking up for this contest against United as Silva is unbeaten in nine opening-day matches. Also look for plenty of goals in this match as the last seven Premier League openers have seen a total of twenty-five goals – close to four per game. Both sides will have new players settling in, including Fulham’s new signing Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal for €31.80m. He is expected to play and he also scored on his only previous Premier League start at Old Trafford. Look for Smith Rowe to be the focal point in Fulham’s attack.
Manchester United vs. Fulham Odds
| United | Draw | Fulham |
| -180 | +340 | +425 |
| ** ESPN Bet Odds Subject to Change** | ||
Manchester United vs. Fulham Match Details
- Fixture: 24/25 Premier League
- Date and Time: August 16, 2024, 2 pm CT
- Location: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
- Weather: Cloudy, 68°
- Field Type: Natural grass
Lineups
Manchester United Predicted XI: 4-2-3-1
Onana, Dalot, Evans, Martínez, Amass, Casemiro, Mainoo, Diallo, Fernandes, Garnacho, Rashford
Fulham Predicted XI: 4-2-3-1
Leno, Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson, Lukic, Pereira, Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi, Muniz Carvalho
Prediction
Openers are always tough to call, as no one really can predict how a team will open up the season. Especially when both teams were as inconsistent as one could be last campaign. With new faces settling in and both defenses still finding their footing, goals could be on the cards. The best bet would be to take both teams to score.
Final Pick
Both teams to score @-180
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