Coach Unai Emery’s team missed the opportunity to climb to the top of the table last weekend, when a 15-match winning streak at home ended with a 1-1 draw with Sheffield United.
However, winning 39 points after 18 matches still brought a Christmas filled with joy for Villa players. They can improve their performance when facing the declining Red Devils.
Aston Villa is playing impressively
MU lost 6/7 matches against teams ranked higher than them in the rankings this season. The only exception was the 0-0 draw with Liverpool , where goalkeeper Andre Onana had to receive 34 shots from the opponent.
In the most recent round, the Red Devils continued to show a disappointing image when they lost 0-2 to West Ham. They desperately need a savior to stand up against The Villians on Boxing Day.
Unfortunately, Ten Hag’s students are seriously lacking confidence, especially in the attacking spearheads. Rookie Rasmus Hojlund has yet to score once in the Premier League after 14 appearances.
Last season’s main striker Marcus Rashford also lost himself. He even often had to sit on the bench, although his replacement – Alejandro Garnacho – was not much better.
The injury crisis in defense is not over yet as all four of MU’s top midfielders have problems. If Varane has not recovered from his illness, “veteran” Evans will continue to have to play alongside 19-year-old player Kambwala.
That is MU’s 10th pair of midfielders since the beginning of the season. It is difficult for Onana to maintain stability in the wooden frame, because he is rarely given maximum protection by his team.
MU just finished at West Ham Stadium
The last time they played at home, Ten Hag’s team also lost 0-3 to Bournemouth . Therefore, Aston Villa did not hesitate to march to Old Trafford.
Great form at Villa Park helps them fly high, but Aston Villa also defeated Tottenham, Chelsea and Brentford in away lands.
Villa’s direct playing style with the ability to change statuses very quickly will make it difficult for MU to defend against tonight’s epic battle.