Manchester United vs. Newcastle United Preview

Manchester United are back in Premier League action, this weekend as they host Newcastle United at Old Trafford. All eyes will be on the homecoming, of Cristiano Ronaldo, who could feature for his second debut of the club.

The return of Cristiano Ronaldo has given United fans new optimism.  The club’s social media account has been adamant to remind you on all fronts, that he is back. Ronaldo was duly given his old shirt number from Edinson Cavani, who took the number 21 shirt after the departure of Daniel James.

Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s side have had a near perfect start to the season, accumulating seven points from their opening nine available.  After three games, United are currently third in the Premier League having won their opening two and drawing one. They opened the campaign with a thumping 5-1 win over Leeds United and then a 1-1 draw with Southampton and a 1-0 win over Wolves have given United a great platform.

The early impressive form, is on record the best start that Ole Gunnar Solksjaer has made whilst Manchester United manager. One of the reasons to his fine start this season, is the form shown by Mason Greenwood. The young forward is currently joint top scorer with Bruno Fernandes, however he has scored in all three games thus far this season.

Newcastle United on the other hand, head into this as the underdogs as another United legend makes his return in Newcastle manager Steve Bruce.  The Magpies have started this season with a whimper, having not won a game so far this season and they labour in 17th place.

The Magpies are not involved in any cup competition until January having been eliminated by Burnley in the Carabao Cup.

They picked up their first point of the season before the international break. Having started with back to back defeats against West Ham and Aston Villa, they conceded in the final moments to James Ward Prowse in their previous game to only pick up a point which could have been three.

It was a summer of frustration for the Newcastle United fans as their club only saw one permanent first team signing in Joe Willock from Arsenal. This was accompanied by other clubs in and around them strengthening with more numbers and more lucrative fees.

Historically the hosts have had the upper hand in this fixture with 89 wins to their name. The last time Newcastle United won at Old Trafford was back in 2013 when David Moyes was Manchester United manager.

Team News

Cristiano Ronaldo could make his second debut for Manchester United. There is doubt however as he has only joined up with the squad this week.

Jadon Sancho suffered a knock while in the England camp but he has also trained this week, as have recent absentees Scott McTominay and Alex Telles.

Jonjo Shelvey and Karl Darlow have been out with injuries as of late. Callum Wilson is ruled out as per Steve Bruce’s conference on Friday.

Freddie Woodman is likely to remain in goal.

Predicted Lineup