Game Week 15 Predictions: Manchester United to beat Forest

Manchester United vs. Nottingham Forest preview: Amorim’s first defeat at Old Trafford, set-piece woes, and rotation strategy for both teams.

Manchester United and Nottingham Forest both need wins after suffering losses in midweek, who will triumph in this fixture? (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

 Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest

Old Trafford

6:30 pm

Manchester United spent hours in training defending set pieces and replaying scenarios, only to lose 2-0 to Arsenal with two set-piece goals.

At the Emirates in midweek, Ruben Amorim lost his first game as a Manchester United manager. United only made one genuine effort on the Arsenal goal, which David Raya handled expertly.

Nottingham Forest, once expected to challenge for a spot in the top four, has now lost three of their last four games, despite their opponents being Newcastle, Arsenal, and Manchester City.

Forest won’t be among the teams to worry about relegation this season, and they’re already thinking about an unprecedented European appearance next season. If that materializes, they must win games, including tough ones like this.

The Amorim regime will take some key lessons until the end of the season, but the feel-good factor fans crave must come from games like this.  Under the new man, United is discovering a new identity, but it will take some time for everything to come together.

The expected style of play in this fixture could be quite intriguing, as both managers have the ability to take risks with their lineups. United will likely field three players at the back, while Forest will likely field four, with the midfield battle determining the outcome.

Despite its unusual ranking, Forest is currently in 7th place, six places above Manchester United. Given the upcoming fixtures, Nuno Espirito Santo's team could potentially rise to fifth place if they defeat United at Old Trafford.

While that is a possibility, bookmakers will likely support the new manager's turnaround at Old Trafford. A win over the visitors could potentially restore Manchester United to the top half of the table, and you reckon they will only aim for the top from there.

Amorim consistently rotates his team, so expect another round of changes. However, Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo have returned after missing the game against the Gunners due to suspensions. Lenny Yoro came on for his debut and showed signs of what is to come. Will he start?

Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga can trouble United on the flanks, but Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho can do the same at the other end. One fixture to anticipate will excite neutrals the most.

Verdict: United to win.