Premier League

Southampton vs Man Utd prediction

The Premier League returns from the international break on Saturday lunchtime as slow starts Southampton host Manchester United.

Russell Martin’s side have lost all three games to open their 2024-25 campaign – 0-1 at Newcastle United, and the same scoreline at home to Nottingham Forest. They scored their first goal of the season as a late consolation in a 1-3 loss at Brentford before the break. Their defeat to Forest is the East Midlands’ club’s only win in their first three.

Meanwhile, Manchester United started their season with a late 1-0 win at home to Fulham before losing late on away to Brighton & Hove Albion and then being thrashed 0-3 at home by rivals Liverpool before the break.

Erik ten Hag’s side have jetted off all around the world so the Dutch manager won’t have had much time with his full squad to prepare for this game in what United fans will be praying their side can win if they want to keep their top 4 ambitions alive this early in the season.

Southampton’s signing of Aaron Ramsdale late in the transfer window makes up for Gavin Bazunu’s injury, which essentially means Martin has a full squad to pick from. The same cannot be side of the visitors who will be without Rasmus Hojlund, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof through injury. Bruno Fernandes is also a doubt through injury.

Harry Maguire should partner Lisandro Martinez in the middle of a back four with Digo Dalot reverting to left-back again, and Noussair Mazraoui attacking down the right. United’s strength should be in attack as they have the likes of Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo, with Kobbie Mainoo pulling the strings behind them.

Neither team heads into this match in much form but Southampton have looked much poorer and have really struggled in attack. Manchester United should pick up another three points on Saturday. The odds are decent and the game is televised if you prefer to take them in-play.

Best bet: Manchester United to win is 8/11 with Bet365