Manchester United is heading into their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest dealing with an injury crisis. The team will be missing key players due to a multitude of injuries, including their top center-backs, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof. Additionally, star striker Marcus Rashford will not be available to play.
Manchester United’s situation
Manchester United is currently in the middle of a competitive Europa League matchup with Sevilla, further complicating their situation. The team has also been performing poorly away from home this season, making their task even tougher when they face Forest at the City Ground on Saturday.
At this point in the Premier League season, margins are thin at both the top and bottom of the table, making this match critical for both clubs. Manchester United is currently sitting in fourth place in the Premier League, only three points ahead of fifth-place Tottenham. They cannot afford to drop points in the top-four race.
Forest’s Situation
On the other hand, Nottingham Forest is currently fighting to avoid relegation and find themselves in 18th place in the league table. The club has struggled to score goals recently and has not won a game in their last nine matches.
However, Steve Cooper’s side could be boosted by the return of some injured players. But Cooper is hesitant to risk these players in a game where they may not get a result that would make it worthwhile.
Team news
Manchester United has suffered multiple injuries to key players this season. Their most significant absences will be center-backs Varane and Lisandro Martinez, both of whom suffered injuries during the Europa League quarterfinals and could miss out for the rest of the season.
Luke Shaw is also doubtful for this weekend’s match due to a thigh injury. This situation leaves Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof as the only available center-back combination for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to choose from.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest has several players out with injuries, including their captain Lewis Grabban.
Betting Odds
The market has heavily moved towards the home side. Despite Manchester United being a top-tier team, Forest has value at home and is recommended for a half-unit wager.
Furthermore, losing both Lisandro Martinez and Marcus Rashford creates a disadvantage for Manchester United. Projections currently make United only 1/15 to win without Rashford in the lineup.
Match Prediction
Due to the injury crisis that Manchester United is facing, this match could prove to be challenging for them. Although they may struggle defensively, they will still have enough firepower upfront to secure a victory.
Final prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Nottingham Forest.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
