Manchester United vs Newcastle: Match prediction, possible lineups, and key team news
By William Muthama, December 26, 2025Manchester United will host Newcastle at Old Trafford on Friday, December 26, 2025, in the Premier League’s only Boxing Day fixture.
With a tricky festive schedule behind them, the Red Devils face a Magpies side looking to build momentum and capitalise on United’s recent struggles.
Currently, Manchester United sit seventh in the Premier League with 26 points, while Newcastle occupy 11th place with 23 points.
A victory for United would see them climb into the top four, tightening their race for European spots, whereas a win for Newcastle could lift them to eighth, giving the Magpies a chance to close the gap on the teams above.
Team forms
United’s festive run has been challenging. A 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend ended a four-game unbeaten streak and compounded problems caused by the absence of Bruno Fernandes due to a hamstring injury.
The Red Devils have also failed to win in their last three home league matches and have struggled defensively, conceding in ten consecutive outings.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s inconsistency continues, with a 2-2 draw against Chelsea exposing defensive lapses, although their historical record against United gives them confidence heading into Old Trafford.
Head-to-head
Newcastle have historically struggled against Manchester United, but recent encounters have favoured the Magpies.
In five of their last six meetings, Newcastle won four times, three of which were clean sheets. United’s last league win over Newcastle was over a year ago, highlighting how past dominance may not reflect current form.
Both teams have been inconsistent this season, setting the stage for a competitive clash.
Team news
Manchester United will be without Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo due to injury, with defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt also doubtful.
Casemiro is expected to step into midfield, while Lisandro Martinez could earn a start after an impressive cameo against Villa. Up front, Matheus Cunha is likely to lead the attack alongside Mount and Sesko.
Newcastle could see goalkeeper Nick Pope return, but their defensive line remains thin, with absentees including Dan Burn, Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Sven Botman, and Jamaal Lascelles.
Lewis Miley may fill in at right-back, while Eddie Howe’s attacking threats rely on Joelinton, Woltemade, and Gordon.
Expected lineups
Manchester United possible starting XI: Lammens, Yoro, Heaven, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Martinez, Dorgu; Mount, Cunha, Sesko
Newcastle United possible starting XI: Pope; Miley, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon
Manchester United will be eager to secure a home victory to break their run of poor form and move into the top four.
Newcastle, despite patchy consistency, will look to exploit defensive weaknesses and continue their strong historical record against United.
A competitive and high-scoring clash is expected, with both sides likely finding the net.
Predicted Score: Manchester United 2-2 Newcastle United