The English Premier League kicks off this Friday with Manchester United taking on Fulham in the season opener. Let’s examine both teams as they head into this match and offer some betting insights on the potential outcome as well as take a look at some Outright Betting markets.
Before diving into the fixture, it’s worth considering a few outright markets that might be of interest for the season ahead.
Aside from Leicester City’s remarkable 2016 triumph, which marked their first-ever league title in the club’s 132-year history, the English Premier League has generally followed a more predictable pattern. Manchester City, with their eight league titles, are clear favourites to lift the trophy again this season. However, given last season’s close call and the current odds of around 15/10, I remain unconvinced. Instead, let’s explore other intriguing options as we approach the start of the season.
Premier League – W/o Manchester City – Arsenal at 8/10
Arsenal have been knocking on the door for quite some time, and after coming so close last season, the gap between them and Manchester City seems to be narrowing. With Manchester City out of the equation, Arsenal at 8/10 looks like a promising option, especially considering that their likely closest rivals, Liverpool, will be without their talismanic manager Jurgen Klopp moving forward.
Premier League – Top 6 – Newcastle United at 15/20
Newcastle faced challenges last season while balancing Champions League commitments with their Premier League campaign. Having finished 7th, their primary focus this season will likely be on securing a stronger league position. With Aston Villa now handling European duties, they might experience similar difficulties to those Newcastle encountered last season. This could create an opportunity for Newcastle to leapfrog back into European contention.
Premier League – Top Goalkeeper [Golden Glove] – David Raya at 2/1
Arsenal have always prided themselves on their defensive structure, and having conceded the fewest goals in the league last season with just 29, this is certainly an area worth considering. With David Raya now establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper, this selection has significant potential to come out on top.
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MANCHESTER UNITED v FULHAM– Click here to bet
After finishing 8th in the league last season, Manchester United will kick off their new campaign on Friday evening with a match against Fulham at Old Trafford, aiming for a strong start. Despite a somewhat disappointing end to the 2023/24 season, Erik ten Hag’s position at the club appears secure for now. With a full term under his belt and some promising new signings, this could be a pivotal season for both the manager and the Red Devils. Last season, they ended with a goal difference of negative 1, a statistic they will be eager to improve as they strive to reclaim their former glory.
Following 3 victories and 2 defeats during the off-season, United returned to competitive football last weekend, ultimately falling to their noisy neighbours, Manchester City, in the Community Shield after a penalty shootout, with the game ending 1-1 in regular time.
Meanwhile, Fulham, having bolstered their squad over the summer, will aim for a top-half finish after finishing 13th last season. Having survived two consecutive seasons in the Premier League after promotion from the Championship, the Cottagers have established themselves as a team to be reckoned with. With the backing of the board, Fulham have made key signings, including a new attacking midfielder, left-back and a centre-back, to continue their progression and challenge the Premier League elite. Last season, they were unbeaten in 21 of their 38 matches, averaging 1.44 goals per game and finishing with a goal difference of negative 6.
During the off-season, Fulham recorded two clean-sheet victories in three friendlies, including a 2-0 win against Hoffenheim and a 1-0 win against Benfica.
Head-to-Head
Manchester United won the reverse fixture 1-0 at Craven Cottage during the 2023/24 campaign. However, Fulham surprised the hosts by winning 2-1 at Old Trafford in this fixture last season.
Betting
Manchester United 4/7
Draw 7/2
Fulham 9/2
Prediction
Last season’s defeat to Fulham at Old Trafford was far from ideal, and United will be determined to avoid a repeat performance this time around. If they are to make serious progress this season, securing all three points in fixtures like these is crucial. Although United may still have some key players sidelined for Week 1, their squad depth should be enough to see them come out on top.
Suggested Bet: Result and Totals, Manchester United and over 1.5 at 7/10
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Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
