Following encouraging signs under Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United will host Wolves at Old Trafford to start their 2023/24 season.
Key Takeaways
- Manchester United finished 2nd last season
- Manchester United won both games against Wolves last season
- This will be the first game for Gary O'Neil as Wolves manager
With three new faces in its squad, Manchester United is raring to go for the new season. Wolves will be a tough opposition for them in the opening match of the new season, even though they are also going through a crisis within the club.
Wolves Form
Last season, they finished 13th but under the leadership of Julen Lopetegui last season, the team showed great promise. However, things have started to go downhill since then. Ruben Neves, the team's key player, has left and Julien Lopetegui has joined him, adding to the misery.
The Spanish manager was upset with the Wolves' transfer strategy this season. It was recently mutually agreed to part ways, and now Gary O'Neil will take charge. With so little preparation and a new manager at the helm, it will be interesting to see how Wolves line up.
Manchester United Form
There is a great deal of expectation surrounding Manchester United's performance this upcoming season. They finished third in the league and won silverware in the EFL Cup but most importantly, their style of play has piqued the attention of fans all over the world.
It seems that United is heading in the right direction now that three new signings have been made, but the club needs to prove its worth on the pitch. Erik Ten Hag has proven himself in the past, but he will have to face tough challenges this season.
Head to Head
Since Wolves gained promotion to the top division in 2018, they have been tough competitors. However, United have enjoyed great success over the Wolves. In the last 18 meetings, United have won 10 and Wolves have won 4.
Team News
There are currently six injuries in the Manchester United camp. Amad Diallo is expected to miss this match due to an ankle injury he sustained during the preseason. Sadly, Rasmus Hojlund, their new recruit from Atlanta, is injured and will not be able to play this match. Henderson, Mainoo, Heaton and Malacia are also out due to injury.
Wolves have no reported injuries in their camp.
Key players
Marcus Rashford was Manchester United's star player last season and now the stakes are higher for him. With no striker available, he may start at centre for this clash. Despite scoring 17 goals last season, Rashford needs to score at least 20 goals if United are to succeed this season.
Matheus Nunes was a great signing for Wolves last season. He formed an impeccable partnership with Neves. However, with Neves not around now, Nunes may have to take things into his own hands. He is going to be crucial for Wolves throughout this season.
How to Watch on TV
Manchester United vs Wolves will be telecasted on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Ultra HDR in the UK.
Final Thoughts
As the first game of the season approaches, Manchester United will look to put their best foot forward. Although injuries are a concern for them, they still have the fuel to beat Wolves. Wolves, on the other hand, are going through various changes within their club but they have enough firepower to upset United.