Match: Manchester United vs Ipswich Town
Competition: Premier League
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Kick-off Time: 7:30 PM GMT
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Where to Watch: Live on TNT Sports 4 and discovery+ (Audio: BBC Radio 5 Live)
Match Preview: United’s Bid to End Home Struggles Against Ipswich
Manchester United are desperate for a win as they host Ipswich Town at Old Trafford in a vital Premier League clash. With just one win in their last six home matches, Erik ten Hag’s men need to rediscover their form if they are to avoid falling further down the table. Currently sitting 15th, United are a mere 13 points above the relegation zone, making this encounter crucial for their survival in the top flight.
Ipswich, meanwhile, will see this as an opportunity to close the gap to United, sitting in 17th place. While they are 13 points behind the Red Devils, a shock win could send alarm bells ringing at Old Trafford, intensifying the pressure on ten Hag’s side.
Manchester United Team News and Injury Updates
- Amad Diallo is out for the rest of the season following a long-term injury.
- Luke Shaw and Mason Mount have not featured since November.
- Jonny Evans, Altay Bayindir, and Toby Collyer remain sidelined.
- Christian Eriksen returned to the bench against Everton, providing a welcome boost.
- Chido Obi may continue to earn minutes off the bench, with Rasmus Hojlund under scrutiny for his lack of goals.
Ipswich Town Team News and Injury Updates
- Ipswich have no major injury concerns ahead of this match and will look to field a full-strength squad.
- Manager Kieran McKenna will be keen to utilize his key players in a bid for a surprise result at Old Trafford.
Head-to-Head Record: Manchester United’s Stronghold at Old Trafford
- Manchester United are unbeaten in their last 10 meetings with Ipswich Town, with their most recent victory coming in a 2-1 win at Portman Road last season.
- Ipswich haven’t won at Old Trafford since their 1-0 triumph in 2001.
- The Red Devils have dominated the recent fixtures, but Ipswich will be hopeful of causing an upset this time around.
Key Players to Watch
Manchester United
- Bruno Fernandes – The Portuguese midfielder remains key to United’s attacking play and will need to step up in the absence of key players.
- Casemiro – The Brazilian defensive midfielder will be crucial in breaking up Ipswich’s counterattacks and ensuring United control the middle of the park.
- Rasmus Hojlund – With a lack of goals to his name, the striker will need to find form if United are to secure a win.
Ipswich Town
- Cameron Humphreys – The 20-year-old midfielder has been one of Ipswich’s standout performers and will look to create opportunities in the heart of the pitch.
- Conor Chaplin – The striker is Ipswich’s main goal threat and will be looking to take advantage of any defensive lapses from United.
- Lee Evans – The midfielder’s ability to disrupt United’s rhythm could play a pivotal role in Ipswich’s chances of pulling off an upset.
Match Facts: United’s Home Woes and Ipswich’s Relegation Battle
- Manchester United have won just one of their last six home games in the Premier League.
- Ipswich Town have managed only one win in their last 10 away matches against Premier League sides.
- United’s home form has been a significant concern, and another defeat could see them drop closer to the relegation zone.
Manchester United vs Ipswich Town Predictions and Betting Tips
Given United’s poor form and Ipswich’s fight for survival, this could be a nervy affair. United will be favorites, but Ipswich will surely look to capitalize on their hosts’ vulnerabilities.
Predicted Score:
Manchester United 2-1 Ipswich Town
Betting Tips:
- Manchester United to win and under 3.5 goals
- Bruno Fernandes to score anytime
- Both teams to score (BTTS – Yes)
Final Thoughts
With United’s top-flight survival hanging in the balance, they can’t afford another slip-up at home. Ipswich will be hoping to take advantage of United’s struggles, but the Red Devils should have enough quality to claim the three points. Fans will be hoping for a much-needed boost under the lights at Old Trafford.
Where to Follow the Match
Fans can watch Manchester United vs Ipswich Town live on TNT Sports 4 and discovery+. Live radio commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live.