Manchester United (9-1-8) vs. Aston Villa (12-3-3)
Manchester United vs. Aston Villa 12/26/23 – An intriguing English Premier League encounter awaits on December 26, 2023, as Manchester United, with a mixed record of 9 wins, 1 draw, and 8 losses, hosts Aston Villa, who have impressed this season with 12 wins, 3 draws, and only 3 losses. The stage is set at Old Trafford, where Manchester United will look to leverage their home advantage against a high-flying Villa side. This match-up is ripe for paid picks and analysis, offering a fascinating insight into two contrasting forms.
Manchester United’s offensive strategy, led by Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford has been an attractive mix of creativity and directness. McTominay has proven a useful goal threat from midfield; Fernandes’ vision and playmaking ability has yielded three goals and three assists; Rashford brings pace and skill which give their attack another dimension; Aston Villa’s defense provides another challenge;
Aston Villa have been impressive on the offensive this season. Ollie Watkins’ 9 goals and 7 assists have been the cornerstone of their attack, while Douglas Luiz provides midfield stability while Leon Bailey provides flair and directness on the wings – qualities which will test Manchester United’s defensive setup that has revealed weaknesses this year. Aston Villa will present Manchester United with an intriguing test, with their dynamic attacking play likely challenging their defense that has shown vulnerabilities this campaign.
Manchester United vs. Aston Villa 12/26/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Old Trafford |
| TV: | UNIV |
| Stream: | – |
André Onana GK vs. Emiliano Martínez GK
André Onana has had his struggles in net this season for Manchester United. Through 17 league starts, he has managed just six clean sheets. His 1.18 goals allowed per 90 minutes is one of the worst marks in the Premier League for a regular starter. Onana has not received much help from United’s porous defense, but he also has failed to bail them out with big saves. His distribution and ability to act as a sweeper-keeper have been adequate, but his shot stopping leaves much to be desired.
On the other side, Emiliano Martínez continues to show why he is one of the top goalkeepers in England. With five clean sheets and a stingy 0.91 goals allowed per 90 minutes, he has backstopped Villa’s rise up the table this season. Martínez is an excellent shot stopper and commands his area well. His distribution helps Villa build attacks from the back. Most importantly, Martínez provides leadership and organization to the defense in front of him. Over their last five matches across all competitions, Aston Villa has conceded just five goals. Martínez’s brilliant form gives his club a major advantage at the most important position on the pitch.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: Manchester United +110, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting odds present Manchester United as slight favorites, likely due to their home advantage. The spread indicates a potentially close game, with a slight leaning towards a United win. The total odds suggest expectations of a moderate scoring game, which aligns with both teams’ recent scoring patterns.
Manchester United Betting Trends
Manchester United’s struggled mightily of late, with just one win in their last five Premier League matches. They have also failed to cover in four straight contests. The Red Devils are just 1-2 against the spread in their last three home matches as well.
Aston Villa Betting Trends
Villa seems to have hit their stride, going 2-1 over their previous five games against mostly top competition. While they are 2-3 ATS over that same sample, they have covered nicely as road underdogs. In nine away matches this season, the Villans are 4-5 against the number.
Manchester United vs. Aston Villa 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing the teams’ forms, styles, and recent trends, this match promises to be a close affair. Manchester United, with their back against the wall and playing at home, might have a slight edge.
In terms of daily EPL free insights, a balanced approach would be wise. Betting on a close scoreline seems reasonable, with a potential lean towards a Manchester United victory. Considering the offensive talents on display, prop bets on players like Watkins or Fernandes to score could be intriguing.
Free Pick and Prediction: Manchester United 2, Aston Villa 1.