Manchester United have been in a poor run of form in the Premier League, picking up just four points from their previous six matches with four defeats in the process.
It was anticipated they would face a challenge with the tough schedule from mid-October, but the performances were pretty lacklustre with heavy defeats to Leicester City and Liverpool.
They were also never in the game in the Manchester derby before the international break. Manchester City comfortably saw through the second half after securing a 2-0 lead.
Despite the poor results, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer continues to stay in charge, but the Norwegian’s future could be hanging in the balance. Another loss could pave the way for his dismissal.
Let’s have a look at how United could fare for the rest of November.
Watford (A) – November 20
United are favourites for this weekend’s game at Vicarage Road, but it won’t be straightforward judging by their recent league fortunes.
The Hornets were second-best against Arsenal this month, but only lost by a slender 1-0 scoreline.
The Gunners had plenty of chances to score, but Ben Foster was terrific between the sticks and also saved a penalty.
United will hope that their graduate does not produce another stand-out display.
Despite the change of manager, the Hornets do concede regular chances, and United should capitalise to return to winning ways.
Prediction: Watford 0-2 Manchester United
Villarreal (A) – November 23
Before the London trip to leaders Chelsea, United have another tricky Champions League clash against Villarreal away from home.
The Yellow Submarines were by far the better team during the previous meeting, but David de Gea saved United’s blushes with a string of world-class saves in the opening half.
United eventually sealed a terrific 2-1 comeback win with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a dramatic 95th-minute winner. The victory was fortuitous, considering their poor showing for an hour.
The Red Devils have been prone to making slow starts to games that has handed the momentum to the opposition.
It could be another frustrating outing at Villarreal where they could share the spoils.
Prediction: Villarreal 1-1 Manchester United
Chelsea (A) – November 28
United have fared impressively against the Blues over the years. They have lost just one of the previous nine meetings. The defeat came in the 2020 FA Cup semi-final.
The Blues have made Stamford Bridge a fortress under Thomas Tuchel, but United have not been beaten in their previous five visits.
However, they have only won twice, with one of those being in the FA Cup.
Three of their last four league meetings at the stadium have ended in draws.
It won’t be a surprise if there is a goalless stalemate. Their encounters last season ended with the same scoreline (0-0).
Prediction: Chelsea 0-0 Manchester United
Man Utd are currently five points adrift of the Champions League places and three behind fifth-placed Arsenal, who have been the in-form club since the September international break.
The Red Devils host the Gunners at Old Trafford on December 2. They could still be trailing the north London club by then if they fail to pick up maximum points in the next two games.
Mikel Arteta’s side have a tough outing at Liverpool this weekend, but that will be followed by a winnable home fixture against Newcastle United, who are five points adrift of safety.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
Read: Jadon Sancho – From Ballon d’Or contender to Man Utd flop.
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