Newcastle vs Manchester United preview: Kick-off time, team news, prediction & Wwhere to watch
Manchester United return to Premier League action on Sunday, April 13, facing a daunting trip to high-flying Newcastle United at St James’ Park. The 4:30pm BST kick-off will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with streaming available via Sky Go.
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United enter the clash still reeling from a frustrating 2-2 draw away to Lyon in the Europa League, where two costly errors from goalkeeper Andre Onana overshadowed promising performances by emerging stars. Leny Yoro opened his United account, while Patrick Dorgu and Joshua Zirkzee impressed, alongside the ever-reliable Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho.
Despite those positives, manager Rúben Amorim’s side remain a work in progress. Defensive fragility and inconsistency have marred their campaign, and facing Eddie Howe’s rejuvenated Newcastle poses a significant challenge.
The Magpies are unbeaten since lifting their first major trophy in 70 years—the League Cup in March—and have surged to fifth in the league table, with a game in hand. A victory on Sunday could see them leapfrog Chelsea into fourth, boosting their European qualification hopes.
Central to Newcastle’s success has been Alexander Isak, who has netted 20 goals in just 27 appearances this season. His electric form has attracted attention from Arsenal and Liverpool, prompting the club to accelerate contract extension talks.
Team News
Newcastle face a fitness concern over winger Anthony Gordon, sidelined with a groin injury since the international break. Joe Willock is ruled out under concussion protocols. Nonetheless, Howe is expected to name a strong XI resembling the side that dominated Leicester in their previous outing.
For United, there is cautious optimism with Kobbie Mainoo back in action, and Ayden Heaven close to a return. However, Matthijs de Ligt and Amad Diallo remain weeks away from full fitness, while Toby Collyer is likely out. Amorim has backed Onana to retain his place in goal despite midweek errors, and Zirkzee could be rewarded with a start after a goal-scoring substitute appearance against Lyon.
Prediction
While United continue to evolve under Amorim, their inconsistencies remain glaring. Newcastle, by contrast, are in commanding form and boast a well-balanced squad. With home advantage and momentum on their side, the Magpies are favourites to take all three points.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Manchester United
Head-to-Head Record
Newcastle wins: 40
Draws: 40
Manchester United wins: 79
Match Odds (via Bet365)
Newcastle win: 4/7
Draw: 12/5
Manchester United win: 7/2
How to Watch
TV Channel: Sky Sports (UK)
Live Stream: Sky Go app and website
Live Blog: Sporting TV
Free Highlights: Sky Sports app, YouTube, and Match of the Day 2 on BBC One at 10:30pm
Stay tuned for what promises to be a fiery encounter between two clubs with very different seasons—but equally high stakes.
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