Game Week 16 Predictions: United to beat Bournemouth

Manchester United aims to close gap against Bournemouth in pivotal clash.

Manchester United can go level on points with Manchester City in fourth with a win over Bournemouth, it's a game they must win. (Photo credit: Premierleague.com)

 Manchester United vs. Bournemouth

Old Trafford

4pm

The Red Devils beat Chelsea in midweek, a very big result that has somehow papered over the cracks at Old Trafford, and, believe it or not, they’re only three points behind Manchester City.

In the City context, if United wins this game against Bournemouth, they will go level on points with the champions and only behind them on goal difference; this explains how quickly things can change in the Premier League, and United should be pumped for this.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was one defeat away from being fired just a month ago, and now he is undefeated in four games. From the big 2-0 win over Newcastle to the 3-1 success at Brentford, the 2-2 draw at home to Villa last weekend, and the massive win away at Palace last weekend,.

Bournemouth is nine points above the relegation zone; they can afford to lose here and not be bothered. It’s a winnable game considering how well they’re playing under Iraola, but they have a big reason to win here as they’d move into the top ten with a win.

United’s injury crisis is beginning to ease, but they will still be without the trio of Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen. Marcus Rashford missed the Chelsea game; it’s unclear whether he will be available, and Mason Mount is also struggling with a calf problem.

There’s a host of names on the treatment table for Bournemouth. Emi Marcondes, Max Aarons, Tyler Adams, Lloyd Kelly, and Ryan Fredericks are all out; Justin Kluivert is on top of his game; and Dominik Solanke is finding his feet in front of goal; they will both be crucial.

The Cherries always attack; they don’t sit back or try to defend deep. They’re quite expansive, and that might surprise many that, at Old Trafford, United could be the side that would sit deep and counter; it would be fascinating to see.

Manchester United is expected to field Scott McTominay. The Scottman has been a menace, and as things stand, he is Manchester United’s highest goal scorer this season. Alejandro Garnacho is another player who will love to build on his current form.

Bruno Fernandes needs to stand and be counted. Rasmus Hoijlund is due a goal, and here’s an opportunity for him to register his first league goal. Both sides have it in them to show promises and then deliver. Who will come out on top?

Verdict: United to win.