The team that defeated Germany’s giants now threatens Manchester United’s Manager
After their shocking midweek victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Aston Villa poses a significant threat to Manchester United when they host them in the seventh round of the English Premier League.
Aston Villa’s impressive performance over the past two seasons could be a contributing factor to the potential dismissal of Dutch coach Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. Reports indicate that the club’s management is nearing a decision regarding his future, given the continued poor results across various competitions.
United suffered their third Premier League defeat of the season in just six games, falling to Tottenham Hotspur (0-3) at Old Trafford last weekend. According to press reports, United’s management has postponed a decision on Ten Hag’s fate until after the match against Aston Villa. A loss in this encounter may seal his fate, particularly with ongoing discussions about potential successors.
In this context, the management might reconsider the option of signing German coach Thomas Tuchel, a prospect that was considered at the end of last season. However, negotiations fell through, allowing Ten Hag to remain in his position.
Tuchel’s name remains an option, as he is currently uncommitted to any club. Other candidates, such as Gareth Southgate, the former England manager, have also been linked with United since his departure from the Three Lions last summer.
Massimiliano Allegri, the former Juventus coach, and Graham Potter, who previously managed Brighton and Chelsea, are also available for consideration.
Here are some key indicators about both teams that may help you predict the winner:
• Manchester United have lost eight Premier League matches by a margin of three or more goals under Erik ten Hag.
• Since Unai Emery’s first Premier League game in charge of Aston Villa, only Man City (85), Liverpool (84) and Arsenal (81) have picked up more home points than Villa (74).
• Aston Villa have won just one of their last 25 Premier League home games against Manchester United (D8 L16), with that victory coming in Unai Emery’s first game in charge of the club in November 2022 (3-1).
• Manchester United have won 40 Premier League games against Aston Villa, with only the Red Devils themselves beating an opponent more often in the competition’s history (41 vs Everton).
• Aston Villa have picked up 13 points in their opening six Premier League matches this season (W4 D1 L1), their best start to a season since 2008-09 under Martin O’Neill (also 13 points).
• Ollie Watkins has been involved in 55 goals in 67 Premier League appearances under Unai Emery for Aston Villa (36 goals, 19 assists).
• Aston Villa’s Jhon Durán has netted four goals in his last four Premier League appearances at Villa Park, all as a substitute.
• Following his red card against Tottenham last time out, Bruno Fernandes will miss this game for Manchester United. It will be just the eighth league game he has missed for the club since his debut in February 2020, with the Red Devils winless in their last four (D1 L3) and failing to score in their last three without the Portuguese international.
With Aston Villa’s recent rise and Manchester United facing potential managerial changes, the upcoming Premier League clash is one to watch. For fans in the Kuwait looking to make the most of the action, Betway is the top choice for online betting, offering unmatched odds and a seamless betting experience.
