Manchester United travel to Vicarage Road to play against Watford on Saturday.
After the humiliating loss to Manchester City, Manchester United went into the international break in complete shambles. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is very fortunate to still be the manager of Manchester United.
But he won’t be able to rely on his good fortune for much longer. It won’t be easy going up against a tricky Watford side. To put on a dominating show and return to winning ways in the Premier League, the Red Devils must play with full intent.
Manchester United was defeated by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City by a 2-0 scoreline. They are already placed outside the top four of the league table and urgently need a win to gain some crucial points.
Watford has always been a difficult team to anticipate. They defeated Everton 5-2 in one encounter but then went on to lose their following two matches against Southampton and Arsenal. However, with United’s backline being disturbed on a regular basis this season, the Hornet’s attackers should have a good opportunity.
Man United’s decline this season has been nearly unexplainable. They have had two wins in their last ten games. Ole can thank his lucky stars that he still has the job after that, but he’ll have to turn things around quickly if he wants to maintain it.
That means coming out firing after the international break and going on a winning streak through the holiday season. He needs to enhance his tactics so that the Red Devils can play with more conviction. He does, however, expect his players to improve their performances.
Cristiano Ronaldo has had a difficult few weeks, with his Portugal team failing to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup by default. He’s a warrior, though, and he won’t stay down for long. CR7 should try to reclaim his scoring form against Watford.
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire had an excellent International break as he broke John Terry’s record.
Both Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were absent from the England squad during the international break. As a result, they should be razor-sharp in this one. Rashford must frustrate defenders with his pace while also being clinical in the final third.
Charging up for Saturday! 🔋💯#MUFC pic.twitter.com/wSmZeLysva
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 16, 2021
Any defence will be troubled by Ismaila Sarr’s speed. He’s capable of building something from nothing. Emmanuel Dennis is another skilled player and can create good chances to score. With their deft passes, Moussa Sissoko, and Danny Rose can also force attacking moves.
David de Gea, of course, must be on his toes to rescue United’s blushes once more with his brilliant saves. Despite their recent run, the Red Devils should have no trouble beating an out-of-form Watford side. United, however, given their current situation, might make this a tense but fascinating game that can go any way.
Watford vs Manchester United: Head-to-head
So far, both teams have faced each other 35 times. Manchester United has a good record versus Watford. Manchester United has won 24 games, while Watford has won six. A total of five games have been drawn.
The last game between the two sides was played on the 10th of January. United won the game with a 1-0 scoreline to advance to the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Watford current form: L, L, W, L, L
Manchester United current form: L, D, W, L, W
Watford vs Manchester United: Team News
Manchester United has a number of injuries, with players such as Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, and Raphael Varane now on the sidelines and unclear for the upcoming match. In order to incorporate some new names into the team, the manager needs to change his lineup.
Pogba will be out for two months whereas Raphael Varane was already declared injured and will be sidelined for 2-3 weeks. Edinson Cavani is also a major doubt for the clash after missing International games with Uruguay.
Scott McTominay declared himself fit for the clash against Watford and Victor Lindelof is also available for the clash after receiving a knock two weeks back.
Promising news from @McTominay10 💬💪#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 16, 2021
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under a lot of pressure to perform, and any setbacks could cost him his job after the next encounter. The Red Devils are already well behind in the title race and can’t afford any more injuries. To meet the challenges, United must make a number of changes.
Injured: Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, Raphael Varane
Doubtful: Edinson Cavani
Suspended: None
Meanwhile, Watford will be playing without Ozan Tufan, Juraj Kucka, Ken Sema, Christian Kabasele, Kwadwo Baah, and Peter Etebo.
Both, Ozan Tufan and Ken Sema suffered knee ligament injuries on International duty. Christian Kabasele has been sidelined due to hamstring issues. Juraj Kucka was sent off against Arsenal and will be certain to miss this match.
Opposition Key Man: Ismaïla Sarr
The Senegalese winger is a big threat to the opposition defense. His lethal speed is threatening and many top clubs have felt it difficult to control his game. He has already scored four goals in 11 games for Watford this season.
Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka has to be really quick and sharp with his tackles while defending against the 23-year-old winger.
Our Prediction for the match:
United will need a strong showing and a strong victory against a team suffering at the bottom of the standings. After a string of difficult matches, Solskjaer will see this match as an opportunity to make a statement.
Ranieri at work 👊 pic.twitter.com/7skW5gN3vY
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) November 16, 2021
That is not to say that Watford should be underestimated, and Ranieri is working hard to establish himself at the club. United, on the other hand, must win and put up a convincing performance to prove that they have learned from their previous performance.
Even a win here would not satisfy all of Solskjaer’s and the players’ critics, but it is the very minimum that can be anticipated.
Our Score: Watford 1-3 Manchester United
