Premier League: Red Devils Can’t Take Their Eyes Off the Prize

Manchester United vs West Ham United

Does the Premier League still matter for Manchester United? Head coach Ruben Amorim would probably not admit it publicly, but it’s not since they’re on the verge of achieving their worst finish in the English top-flight this season. The Red Devils are 15th in the standings with only 39 points and are winless in their last six league matches.

They still have three league matches to go, including against West Ham United at Old Trafford this Sunday. However, Manchester United’s main focus is to win the Europa League to secure a Champions League berth next season, regardless of where they end up. Ruben Amorim’s side is likely back to the final with a 3-0 first-leg advantage over Athletic Bilbao.

Meanwhile, West Ham United are 17th in the table with 37 points and are winless in their last eight games. Graham Potter’s men have nothing to play for except to salvage some pride.

 

Talking Points

The youngsters should continue to play for Manchester United

Ruben Amorim is expected to rotate his squad against West Ham United since the Europa League is the priority, which means more playing time for the youngsters. Against Brentford, Amorim started academy players Tyler Fredricson, Harry Amass, and Chido Obi-Martin. Altay Bayindir, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount were also in the starting XI for the first time in a while.

Mason Mount, who scored his first Manchester United goal against Brentford last season, netted in the 14th minute. However, Luke Shaw’s own goal, Kevin Schade’s brace, and Yoane Wissa’s goal put the Bees ahead 4-1. Alejandro Garnacho scored in the 82nd minute, and Amad Diallo scored in stoppage time to make the final score (4-3) flattering for the Red Devils.

It’s good to see Amad Diallo back in the last two games after missing a huge chunk of the 2024-25 season due to a serious ankle injury. The Ivorian winger returned ahead of schedule, and he’s expected to lead the way against West Ham United since he’ll likely come off the bench against Athletic Bilbao in the second leg later. Meanwhile, don’t be surprised if Chido Obi-Martin draws another start since he is ineligible to play in the Europa League.

 

West Ham United could lose impactful playmaker

West Ham United are worried about Lucas Paqueta’s mental state following his breakdown during the team’s 1-1 draw against Tottenham. The Brazilian midfielder burst into tears after receiving a yellow card for his foul on Mikey Moore in the second half. James Ward-Prowse eventually replaced Paqueta in the 80th minute.

The FA has charged Paqueta with four counts of alleged spot-fixing related to deliberately picking up yellow cards for betting purposes. If he is found guilty, Paqueta faces a lifetime ban from the Premier League. It was revealed that the ordeal has taken a mental toll on the 27-year-old.

Graham Potter will likely have James Ward-Prowse start if Paqueta is not fit to play this weekend. Ward-Prowse will probably join Tomas Soucek in the middle of the park.

 

History

​West Ham United notched a 2-1 win at the London Stadium last October. Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen scored for the Hammers, while Casemiro scored for the Red Devils. The loss ultimately cost Erik ten Hag his head coaching job. Julen Lopetegui was on the other side but was eventually replaced by Graham Potter. The Hammers plan to complete a league double over the Red Devils for the first time since the 2006-07 season.

Manchester United are unbeaten in their last 16 Premier League home games against West Ham United (W13, D3), winning each of their last four without conceding goals. But if they lose or draw again this weekend, the Red Devils will become winless in seven consecutive Premier League matches for the first time since 1992.

 

Betting Tip

The Premier League 2025 odds expect a ho-hum game between Manchester United and West Ham United. Because they’re playing at home, the Red Devils have a slight advantage at 2.04, while the Hammers are at 3.26, and a draw is at 3.29 in the 1X2 market.

Despite the non-bearing nature of this match, SBOTOP football fans and bettors will get their fair share of goals and Premier League 2025 highlights, hence our recommended bet. You can also go for other options such as Over 2.50 at 1.79, Over 2.75 at 2.03, and Over 3.00 at 2.33. Furthermore, a Correct Score of 2-1 in favour of West Ham United – the result of the reverse fixture – offers a handsome payday of 12.00 your bet.

   

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