As the March international break looms, Manchester United turns its undivided attention to a crucial Premier League clash against Leicester City. Under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, United is poised to build on their recent success, having impressively dispatched Real Sociedad in the Europa League’s Last 16.
Match Info
- English Premier League Matchday 29 of 38
- Sunday 16th March 2025 14:00 EST / 19:00 GMT
- King Power Stadium, Leicester, England, UK
This victory has set a high bar, and expectations are that they will overpower a Leicester City side that has been floundering. Despite missing key players like Patrick Dorgu and several central defenders, United demonstrated resilience in their defence against Real Sociedad, who, despite their lacklustre performance, posed a significant challenge.
Leicester’s struggles are twofold: scoring goals and defending them, which Manchester United is likely to exploit. Given Leicester’s current form, even a single goal from United might suffice to secure the three points, boosting morale and momentum as they head into the break and prepare for significant upcoming fixtures in April.
The initial phase of the match could be critical; if Amorim’s squad can withstand Leicester’s early pressure, they are well-positioned to capitalize on their recent form and secure another win, reinforcing their strength as they move forward in the season.
Leicester City
As Leicester City navigates through turbulent times, the board’s decision to retain Ruud van Nistelrooy amidst calls for a managerial change reflects a strategic, albeit risky, choice. With the spectre of relegation looming large, the Foxes find themselves in a precarious 19th place in the Premier League, trailing safety by six points with only ten matches remaining. The urgency for victories is palpable, especially as Leicester faces a daunting run of games against top-seven teams following this fixture.
The tenure of van Nistelrooy began with promise—a victory at home against West Ham and a resilient 2-2 comeback against Brighton. However, the initial optimism has since dissipated, giving way to a concerning slump. Leicester has suffered 13 losses in their subsequent 15 matches across all competitions, including five consecutive Premier League defeats without managing to score. Moreover, their home form has been particularly alarming, with six straight losses at the King Power Stadium, during which they failed to find the back of the net.
Despite these challenges, the team’s health is as robust as it has been all season, marred only by a single long-term injury. This upcoming match is not just another fixture; it’s a critical juncture for Leicester City, a chance to reverse their fortunes and inject some much-needed optimism into their campaign. The question remains: can van Nistelrooy galvanise his squad to harness their potential and secure a vital win in this high-stakes encounter?
Manchester United
Under Ruben Amorim’s stewardship, Manchester United have shown promising signs, particularly in clashes against higher-ranked Premier League teams. These fixtures have demonstrated United’s capability to elevate their game and complicate matters for formidable opponents. However, challenges have persisted in matches where United are the favourites and expected to dominate the play.
This dynamic shifted dramatically last Thursday when Manchester United staged a remarkable comeback to secure a commanding 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in the Europa League. This win has not only bolstered the team’s morale but also kept their ambitions alive for the post-international break period. Although their Premier League standings might seem modest at 14th, Amorim’s primary objective remains clinching the Europa League title, aiming for an unexpected berth in next season’s Champions League.
The team’s recent form is encouraging, with no losses in normal time across their last six outings in all competitions, although four of these encounters ended in draws. The emphatic win against Sociedad broke this pattern of stalemates. In terms of away performances, United have lost only once in their last seven games in all competitions, despite half of these games ending in draws, including a 2-2 standoff at Goodison Park in their last Premier League road game.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Mason Mount might make a comeback from the bench, whereas Harry Maguire’s participation is uncertain, having been omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s inaugural England squad. With Leny Yoro expected back after the break, young Ayden Heaven will have another opportunity to make his mark. Meanwhile, Patrick Dorgu will sit out once again due to his ongoing domestic suspension.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Manchester United to win
Manchester United’s recent resurgence under Ruben Amorim, especially following their commanding performance against Real Sociedad, suggests they have the momentum to overcome a Leicester City side struggling with form and confidence. Leicester’s inability to score in their last six home games, coupled with United’s improved performance even in the absence of key players, tilts the prediction in favour of the visitors.
America Bet Score Prediction
Leicester City 0 – 2 Manchester United
Manchester United’s defensive solidity, evidenced by their ability to contain teams like Real Sociedad, combined with Leicester City’s scoring drought, especially at home, leads to a prediction of a 2-0 victory for United. The visitors are expected to capitalize on Leicester’s vulnerabilities and secure a comfortable win.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Manchester United to win.
- Total goals under 2.5.
- Manchester United to win to nil.
- Exact score 0-2.
- First goal scorer: Any Manchester United player.
- Both teams to score – No.
- Manchester United to lead at half-time.
- Total corners over 10.5.
- Anytime goal scorer: Ayden Heaven.
- Manchester United to have more than 55% possession.
