Softfootball previews Sunday’s Premier League clash between Manchester United and Leicester City, offering predictions, team news, and potential lineups. In his final match as Manchester United’s interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy will lead the Red Devils as they host Leicester at Old Trafford. His tenure saw a recent 2-0 Europa League win over PAOK, while Leicester rescued a point with a last-minute goal to draw 1-1 with Ipswich Town.
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Match Preview Under the interim guidance of Van Nistelrooy, United needed some inspiration to break through against PAOK on Thursday. Amad Diallo delivered with two second-half goals, showcasing skill that evoked memories of Arjen Robben and Mohamed Salah. The win secured United’s first Europa League success of the season, extending Van Nistelrooy’s unbeaten run as manager to three games. In the Premier League, however, United has had a challenging season, currently in 13th place and struggling with scoring issues, tallying only nine league goals so far—their lowest at this point since the 1973-74 season.
Leicester City, meanwhile, pulled off a dramatic equalizer against Ipswich. Jordan Ayew’s last-minute strike prevented a loss, helping the team end a two-game losing streak. The Foxes are currently in 15th place, only two points behind United, meaning a win would push them ahead in the standings. Goals have been a common theme in Leicester’s away games, scoring and conceding in all five of their road matches this season. Their recent EFL Cup encounter at Old Trafford also saw plenty of action, with United emerging victorious in a high-scoring affair.
Team News United’s Diallo is uncertain after sustaining a knock against PAOK, joining a list of sidelined players including Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, and Tyrell Malacia. Marcus Rashford could step in for Diallo, with Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt likely returning to the backline. New manager Ruben Amorim is expected to shift United’s formation to a 3-4-3 after taking over.
Leicester emerged unscathed from their Ipswich draw, with Patson Daka possibly returning from a long-term injury. Hamza Choudhury could also be available after avoiding surgery for a shoulder issue. Meanwhile, Vardy looks set to lead the attack, aiming to add to his six career goals against United.
Predicted Lineups Manchester United: Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Ugarte; Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Leicester City: Hermansen; Justin, Faes, Okoli, Kristiansen; Soumare, Winks; Fatawu, Buonanotte, Ayew; Vardy
With Van Nistelrooy’s interim tenure nearing an end, United aim to end on a high note. However, Leicester could prove a challenge, especially if they employ a defense-minded approach to disrupt United’s rhythm. Despite Leicester’s struggles on the road, United’s form will be tested as they transition to a new era under Amorim.
