Nottingham Forest vs Man United: Match preview, what to expect, key players

0 3

31 Mar 2025 18:43

Manchester United return to action in the Premier League on Tuesday evening when they face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

United are unbeaten in their last four league games, their longest unbeaten streak in the top flight under manager Ruben Amorim, who is in the running for March’s Manager of the Month award.

Nottingham Forest are one of the best teams in the division. They sit third in the standings and are seeking to qualify for the Champions League since 1989/90.

They secured a semi-final spot in the FA Cup on Saturday and will be in high spirits for this clash.

Match preview

United have a strong record at Forest, losing only once in their last nine visits to the East Midlands side.

However, Forest have enjoyed recent success against the Red Devils, winning their last two league meetings.

Amorim has confirmed that defenders Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire are fit and ‘ready to go’ for this clash. However, Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo are ‘not ready’ and will not be involved.

Forest are monitoring the fitness of star striker Chris Wood, who picked up an injury on international duty with New Zealand.

There is also concern regarding midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White’s fitness. He picked up a knock after colliding with the post in the FA Cup triumph over Brighton & Hove Albion.

What to expect

This fixture has always produced goals, with no goalless draws recorded in the last 23 league meetings between the two sides. Tuesday’s contest should be no different.

Man United should dominate possession, as Forest are not a possession-oriented side. The hosts rank bottom for average possession per game.

Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to stick with his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, while Amorim will likely continue with his 3-4-2-1 setup for United.

Key players

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese playmaker has been instrumental in United’s upturn in form and was nominated for the March’s Player of the Month award.

Matthijs de Ligt: The Dutch centre-back has been imperious in United’s defence recently, and his performance could be key in this contest.