Three Points: Bournemouth vs. Manchester United
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 15: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United is challenged by Marcos Senesi of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Bournemouth at Old Trafford on December 15, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) | Getty Images Manchester United will look to start another winning run at Bournemouth on Friday after a big 3-1 rebound win against Aston Villa at Old Trafford last weekend. Interim boss Michael Carrick has guided the side to a stellar run of form at home, but a draw and a defeat in the last three road matches have shown where the Reds are still lacking at times.
Here are three points of focus for United as they travel to the south coast with hopes of cementing their hold on third place in the Premier League table Who goes to the bench? Amad Diallo hasn’t contributed in the attacking areas this season despite putting in some solid displays, but he seems to offer the side some balance with his defensive diligence. On the other hand, Benjamin Sesko can’t stop scoring, and Matheus Cunha’s better off on the left than the other options.
Bryan Mbeumo’s been a starter when available all season, but it looks like he could use a game on the bench after a few dull displays. Bogey team The Cherries have caused United problems at home and away for years. This won’t be an easy game, and United will have to match Bournemouth’s energy before they can show their quality.
Bournemouth are also unbeaten in their last 10 league games. A win at the Vitality Stadium would be no small feat for material and psychological reasons. Assist record With little to play for in terms of silverware, much of the focus besides United’s qualification hopes will be on what Bruno Fernandes does from now until the end of the season.
The United captain is one of the favourites for the PFA Player of the Season and is just five assists away from breaking the all-time Premier League assists record. It won’t be easy, but Fernandes has been creating more chances than anyone in Europe for a while now. There has never been any doubt regarding his quality, but Fernandes has never really been held in the same regard as some of the Premier League greats.