Crystal Palace vs. Man Utd: Match Preview, Predictions and Lineups

Match Overview

Crystal Palace will welcome Manchester United to Selhurst Park on Sunday lunchtime in an important Premier League clash. United arrive under pressure after a disappointing home defeat, while Palace seek to build momentum and climb the mid-table positions.

Team Form

Crystal Palace: Managed by Oliver Glasner, Palace have been inconsistent but showed resilience in recent weeks. Their defensive organization at home has improved, although their attack still struggles to convert chances.
Manchester United: Erik ten Hag’s side are looking to recover from a recent setback. Defensive lapses and injuries have disrupted their rhythm, but the team remains dangerous on the counter through quick transitions.

Key Players to Watch

Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace): Known for creativity and dribbling, Eze remains the central figure in Palace’s attacking play.
Jean-Philippe Mateta: The forward’s physical presence could trouble United’s backline, particularly on set pieces.
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United): The captain drives United’s offensive tempo and tends to deliver in high-pressure fixtures.
Rasmus Højlund: Expected to lead the line, his movement off the ball will be a test for Palace’s defenders.

Tactical Outlook

Glasner is likely to adopt a 3-4-2-1 setup focused on compact defense and quick wing play. Manchester United could mirror that with a 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on possession control and rapid breaks through the flanks. Both managers emphasize transition phases, so control of midfield could prove decisive.

Predicted Lineups

Crystal Palace (3-4-2-1): Johnstone; Andersen, Guéhi, Ward; Clyne, Lerma, Doucouré, Mitchell; Eze, Olise; Mateta.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Onana; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Shaw; Amrabat, Mainoo; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Højlund.

Match Prediction

Manchester United’s quality in attack might eventually tell, but Palace’s home advantage and structure make this a close encounter. Expect a tight contest possibly ending in a 1–1 draw.

“We know it will be a tough game. We must respond strongly after our last performance,” said Erik ten Hag in the pre‑match conference.
Oliver Glasner countered: “Facing United always brings great motivation. We want to make Selhurst loud.”

Author’s summary: A tense and tactical Premier League battle looms as Crystal Palace host Manchester United, with both sides chasing stability after uneven performances.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-11-30