The Premier League Matchday 16 wraps up with a Monday night showdown at Old Trafford, where Manchester United host AFC Bournemouth in an 8:00 PM GMT kick-off. The Red Devils will be aiming to continue their resurgence and push closer to the top four, while Bournemouth look to snap a frustrating winless run.
Current Form & Standings
Manchester United are 6th in the Premier League with 25 points from 15 matches (7 wins, 4 draws, 4 defeats; goal difference +4). Ruben Amorim’s side delivered their most convincing display of the season last week, dismantling Wolves 4-1, with captain Bruno Fernandes leading the charge with two goals and an assist.
Bournemouth sit 13th on 20 points (5 wins, 5 draws, 5 losses; GD -3). Andoni Iraola’s men have gone six games without a win, though their recent 0-0 draw against Chelsea showed signs of defensive improvement.
Head-to-Head Record
Despite United’s overall dominance (10 wins to Bournemouth’s 4, with 3 draws), recent meetings favor the Cherries. Bournemouth are unbeaten in their last four matches against United, including back-to-back 3-0 wins at Old Trafford.
However, United’s current form and home advantage could finally swing the balance back in their favor.
Team News & Injuries (Updated)
Manchester United Injury Update
- Matthijs de Ligt – Knock injury (expected back late December 2025)
- Harry Maguire – Knock injury (expected back late December 2025)
- Benjamin Šeško – Illness
Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo could be playing their final matches before AFCON duties, while youngster Ayden Heaven may retain his place in defense.
Bournemouth Team News
- Lewis Cook – Suspended
- Ryan Christie – Injured
- Ben Doak – Hamstring issue
- Marcos Senesi is expected to be fit after cramps in the previous match
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
Lammens; Mazraoui, Heaven, Shaw; Diallo, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Cunha
Bournemouth (4-2-3-1):
Petrovic; Smith, Diakité, Senesi, Truffert; Scott, Tavernier; Jimenez, Kluivert, Semenyo; Evanilson
Key Battles & Tactical Insights
- Bruno Fernandes vs Bournemouth Midfield: United’s captain is the creative heartbeat; stopping him is crucial for the visitors.
- Antoine Semenyo on the break: His pace could trouble United’s high defensive line.
- Goals expected: United lead the league in shots on target but have managed just one clean sheet.
Notably, Over 2.5 goals has landed in United’s last six home games against Bournemouth.
Match Prediction
United’s confidence is growing under Amorim, and the emphatic Wolves win should translate into another strong attacking display. While Bournemouth’s recent Old Trafford success adds intrigue, their current slump gives United the edge.
Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-1 or 2-2 Bournemouth
A United win, both teams to score, and over 2.5 goals look like solid value options. A Bruno Fernandes goal involvement also appears likely.
A victory could see United edge closer to the Champions League places — expect a tense but entertaining night under the Old Trafford lights.