Old Trafford plays host to a clash between Manchester United and newly-promoted Burnley, as both sides look to gain some momentum going into the first international break.
The Red Devils come into this fixture off the back of failing to win in either of their opening two matches, although the narrative is a lot more positive than it was this time 12 months ago.
Despite accumulating only one point from their opening six available, this is a different United side from last season. The incomings of Bryan Mbuemo and Matheus Cunha have made Ruben Amorim’s team both a more vibrant and dynamic opposition to face.
Their opening half-hour at Craven Cottage was an indicator of the talent that United now have at their disposal, and even though the away side didn’t score in the opening 45 minutes, it is the most positive I have seen them under Amorim.
Bad habits
However, United fell back into bad habits as they were completely dominated in the second half by a structured Fulham side.
A blend of poor ball retention and a lack of physicality in the midfield led to a wave of Fulham pressure, which ultimately paid dividends as Emile Smith-Rowe’s late equaliser denied United the three points.
Amorim’s side will need to maintain consistency over the course of a full 90 minutes if they are to succeed in their aim of returning to European football next campaign.
Burnley come into this game in high spirits, after a vital win against fellow newly-promoted side Sunderland kick-started their season in the top flight.
In what has been a summer of rebuilding for Burnley, last Saturday’s performance highlighted that they might not be a complete shoe-in for the drop.
Under Scott Parker, Burnley’s success had been established by their defensive foundations.
Defensive departures
However, the departures of James Trafford and CJ Egan-Riley – to Manchester City and Marseille, respectively – meant they lost two cornerstones of a very successful system.
The Clarets have replaced them with two players with a remarkable amount of Premier League experience, in Martin Dubravka and Kyle Walker – two players who know what it takes to be successful in the top flight.
This experience was told in gameweek two as they managed to keep a clean sheet against a very young Sunderland attack.
If they are to have any chance of survival, then Parker will need his defence to remain as consistent as they were at Turf Moor last weekend.
Here, EPL Bets writer Ethan Pitts tips up a treble for Saturday afternoon’s clash at Old Trafford.
What are the best bets for Manchester United vs Burnley?
Man United to win
Burnley have failed to defeat Manchester United in any of their past seven matches against each other.
A clear gap in quality and expense between the two, which leads me to believe the Red Devils should comfortably win on Saturday afternoon.
Matheus Cunha to have 1+ shot on target outside the box
Cunha has hit this line in eight out of his last nine starts at home, both at Manchester United and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Cunha has only ever played Burnley once at home in his career, comfortably hitting this line in the game he did.
Most Cards: Burnley
Burnley averaged over two cards a game away on their travels last season.
United have had the fewest cards in their last six home games in all competitions.
Where can I watch Manchester United vs Burnley?
This match isn’t scheduled to be televised live in the UK. However, BBC Radio 5 Live will be covering the game from 3:00 PM UK time.
What is Manchester United’s form?
D-L-W-D-W
What is Burnley’s form?
W-W-L-L-L
What was the score when Manchester United last played Burnley?
Manchester United 1-1 Burnley (April 27, 2024)
Who scored when Manchester United last played Burnley?
Antony (79’)
Amdouni (87’)
