As the World Cup draws to a close and the return of club football looms, take a look a what’s in store for the Red Devils over the forthcoming festive period.
Wednesday, December 21 – Manchester United vs Burnley (H), Carabao Cup. Kick-off 8 pm.
The Reds take on Championship leaders Burnley next week in a bid to progress to the next stage of the Carabao Cup. 16 teams remain and it provides a great opportunity for Erik ten Hag to pick up a trophy in his first season in charge. He will come up against a well-known face at Old Trafford, as former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is in charge of the Clarets.
Tuesday, December 27 – United vs Nottingham Forest (H), Premier League. Kick-off 8 pm.
United’s first Premier League match back in action since November 13, when Alejandro Garnacho secured the three points with a last-gasp winner at Craven Cottage that sent the away end into hysterics. Steve Cooper’s side are 18th in the league and are on the back of a 1-0 win against Crystal Palace. It will also see the return of former Red Jesse Lingard at Old Trafford, after his departure in the summer.
Saturday, December 31 – Wolves vs United (A), Premier League. Kick-off 12.30 pm.
A trip to the Molineux will be United’s last action of the year on New Year’s Eve. Wolves are a team which have often proved difficult to overcome for the Reds, however, they have started the 2022/2023 campaign poorly and currently sit rock bottom of the league on 10 points.
Tuesday, January 3 – United vs Bournemouth (H), Premier League. Kick-off 8 pm.
The Cherries have overseen fluctuating form in their return to the top flight. Following Scott Parker’s immediate sacking after Bournemouth’s 9-0 loss to Liverpool, former West Ham and Middlesbrough player Gary O’Neil was named caretaker manager. After picking up 13 points from 11 league matches, he was made permanent manager.
Friday, January 6 – United vs Everton (H), FA Cup. Kick-off 8 pm.
The Toffees went into the international break after a poor run of results, which included three consecutive losses in all competitions. The tie may provide a chance to see United’s academy product James Garner in action, who left the club in the summer on a permanent deal to Everton. The youngster would certainly receive a warm welcome on his return to Old Trafford.
