Manchester United vs Aston Villa
Back Villa to end the season a high and inflict yet more misery on the Red Devils
Manchester United must firmly put their Europa League final defeat behind them as they host Aston Villa on the final day of the Premier League season. It’s been a hugely underwhelming campaign for Ruben Amorim and the Red Devils, who could finish as low as 17th if Spurs pick up something against Brighton on Sunday afternoon.
The club will have no European football next season and this could potentially be the final swansong for Bruno Fernandes, who has admitted that he’s open to leaving the club, should they wish to cash in on their captain.
Fans haven’t seen their side pick up maximum points since March 16th (beating Leicester 3-0) and haven’t witnessed a home success since the end of February. United have failed to score in each of their last three home matches and will be desperate to end that barren run on Sunday.
Aston Villa still have plenty to play for. They have had nine days to prepare for this fixture and although Marcus Rashford will be ineligible to feature, they should name their strongest XI. Unai Emery will be hoping that either Manchester City, Newcastle or Chelsea slip up, allowing them to snatch a Champions League spot.
In complete contrast to United’s poor form, Villa have been excellent in recent weeks and they have been victorious in eight of their last ten PL matches. They’ve also won four of their last five away games, keeping a clean sheet (somewhat fortuitously against Bournemouth) in each of those successes.
They’ve dropped just 11 points when travelling to sides below seventh this season and will be confident of collecting in this final fixture.
Jack’s football journey began in the early 2000s at Bloomfield Road, sparking a lifelong passion for the EFL and beyond. With over a decade of writing and tipping experience, he delivers sharp insights and value-driven betting advice across football, darts, tennis, and horse racing.
When he’s not analysing stats, Jack is on commentary duty for Stoke City and occasionally heard at Owlerton Greyhound Stadium. Based in Leeds, he’s as reliable with a brew as he is with a bet.