
- Fixture: Manchester United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves)
- Date: Sunday, 20 April 2025
- Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Match Preview
Manchester United host Wolves at Old Trafford in a Premier League encounter that suddenly looks much more intriguing given Wolves’ remarkable surge in form. While United are still reeling from inconsistent performances and a heavy defeat at Newcastle, Wolves are riding a wave of momentum after a thrilling 4-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, marking their fourth consecutive Premier League win and extending their unbeaten run to five matches. This upturn has lifted Wolves to 16th and put significant daylight between them and the relegation zone.
United’s recent form remains a concern for fans. They have managed just one win in their last five league games, with a 3-0 victory at Leicester the only bright spot amidst draws against Manchester City and Arsenal, and losses to Newcastle and Nottingham Forest. Injuries continue to plague Erik ten Hag’s side: Joshua Zirkzee is sidelined with a hamstring issue, Harry Maguire is still out, and Luke Shaw remains a doubt. The Red Devils have struggled for goals, averaging just over one per game, and their defense has looked particularly vulnerable against teams with pace and directness.
Wolves, in contrast, are brimming with confidence. Their 4-2 win over Spurs was a statement performance, featuring an explosive start with Rayan Ait-Nouri scoring inside two minutes and further goals from a Djed Spence own goal, Jorgen Strand Larsen, and the returning Matheus Cunha. Cunha’s comeback from suspension was a huge boost, and his late goal sealed the win after Spurs had threatened a comeback. Wolves have now won four straight Premier League games for the first time since 1972, with their recent run including victories over Ipswich, Southampton, and Fulham, as well as a draw at Bournemouth. However, they did lose Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and Matt Doherty to injuries against Spurs, and both are doubts for the trip to Old Trafford.
Tactically, this promises to be a fascinating contest. United will likely look to control possession and use Bruno Fernandes’ creativity to unlock Wolves’ defense, but they must be wary of Wolves’ counter-attacks. Wolves, under Vítor Pereira, have become more clinical in transition, with Ait-Nouri and Strand Larsen both in fine form and Cunha’s return adding further firepower. Wolves’ ability to press high and exploit defensive errors was evident against Spurs, and United’s recent defensive frailties could be exposed if they are not disciplined.
Given Wolves’ form and United’s struggles, this fixture feels far more balanced than it might have a month ago. United’s home advantage and attacking quality still make them slight favorites, but Wolves’ confidence and attacking threat mean an upset is very possible. Expect a high-energy, entertaining match with both teams likely to find the net.
Key Players
- Manchester United:
- Bruno Fernandes: United’s creative engine, crucial for breaking down Wolves’ defense.
- Alejandro Garnacho: A constant threat with pace, recently scored at Newcastle.
- Christian Eriksen: With injuries mounting and midfield rotation in recent games, Eriksen’s experience and vision have been vital. He played a key role in United’s best attacking moves against Newcastle, linking up well with Fernandes and Zirkzee before the latter’s injury. Eriksen’s ability to dictate tempo and deliver set pieces will be crucial as United look to break down a resilient Wolves side.
- Wolves:
- Matheus Cunha: Scored on his return from suspension, Wolves’ top scorer and focal point in attack.
- Jorgen Strand Larsen: In red-hot form, scoring in four consecutive league games.
- Rayan Ait-Nouri: Provides attacking threat from the left, scored the fastest Premier League goal in Wolves’ history last weekend.
Prediction
With Wolves in their best form of the season and United struggling for consistency and confidence, this match is wide open. Wolves’ attacking trio of Cunha, Strand Larsen, and Ait-Nouri could cause real problems for United’s depleted defense, while United’s home advantage and individual quality cannot be discounted. Expect a competitive, high-scoring affair. A draw or narrow Wolves win seems plausible given current trajectories.
Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-2 Wolves
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
---|---|---|
Manchester United Win | 21/20 | Bet Now |
Draw | 11/4 | Bet Now |
Wolves Win | 14/5 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | 4/5 | Bet Now |
Over 2.5 Goals | 10/11 | Bet Now |
Wolves +0.25 Asian Handicap | 23/20 | Bet Now |
Wolves Draw No Bet | 9/5 | Bet Now |
Man Utd Under 1.5 Goals | 4/5 | Bet Now |
Odds are subject to change. Please gamble responsibly.
Wolves’ win over Spurs has transformed the mood around Molineux, and with both sides desperate for points, this should be one of the weekend’s most entertaining fixtures.