Man United vs Aston Villa: Match preview, match facts, team news, key players

Manchester United take on Aston Villa at Old Trafford in their final Premier League match of the season on Sunday.

United have nothing left to play for but will aim to avoid another defeat on their patch following Wednesday’s loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.

Aston Villa are chasing Champions League qualification and must win this fixture. They also need Chelsea, Manchester City, or Newcastle United to drop points to qualify for the competition.

Match facts

Manchester United have 40 league victories over Villa, which is their second-best record against any side in the top flight.

Aston Villa have won just twice in their last 39 visits to United, both by one goal.

United have lost their last three league matches but they have not lost four consecutive league games since February 1979.

United have won their final league fixture on 22 occasions. Only Arsenal boast of a better record.

Match preview

Villa are favourites for this clash. They are one of the most in-form teams in the league, having won four of their last five fixtures.

By contrast, United have not won a league match since March, losing six of their last eight games.

However, the pressure to secure Champions League qualification could benefit United.

With Unai Emery’s side desperate for a win, the Red Devils might find opportunities on the counter-attack.

However, United’s defeat to Spurs may have impacted their morale, potentially giving Villa an edge.

Team news

United will be without long-term absentee Lisandro Martinez, while Matthijs de Ligt remains a doubt due to fitness concerns.

Midfielder Jacob Ramsey returns for Villa after serving a one-match suspension. Youri Tielemans could also be available after missing the last two games with a calf injury.

Key players

Man United

Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese playmaker struggled against Spurs but has a strong record against Villa. He has seven goals and two assists against the West Midlands outfit.

Harry Maguire: The English centre-back is expected to retain his place in the starting line-up. His towering presence could be crucial.

Aston Villa

Youri Tielemans: Voted both Supporters’ Player and Players’ Player of the Season, the Belgian has been instrumental in Villa’s campaign.

Morgan Rogers: The 22-year-old has been in excellent form, registering 17 goal involvements in the league. He’s a nominee for the Young Player of the Year award.

Stats from bbc.com & transfermarkt.com

Article written by Henry Thornton .