After a promising debut season under Erik ten Hag, Manchester United is gearing up for the 2022/23 campaign with renewed optimism. A successful top-three finish and Carabao Cup triumph have ignited hopes of a brighter era at Old Trafford. The Dutch manager’s belief in his team’s potential to “win every game” is driving their ambitions, fueled by a transformative summer bolstering their squad at both attacking and defensive ends.
Ten Hag’s mission for the new season includes emulating his predecessors by achieving a higher position in his second year. Sustaining their impressive home form, where they remained unbeaten in their last 29 competitive matches (W25, D4), is paramount to this goal. United’s focus lies on improving their attack, having scored just 58 Premier League goals last season — the lowest among the top-six teams by a significant margin.
Wolves, on the other hand, approach this season opener amidst turmoil. Managerial changes and departures of key players have posed challenges for the team. Despite their spectacular comeback under Julen Lopetegui last term, the summer has seen struggles with Financial Fair Play constraints. New head coach Gary O’Neil, accustomed to crisis management, looks to guide Wolves out of their predicament.
Notably, O’Neil orchestrated an impressive turnaround at Bournemouth last season after a 9-0 loss to Liverpool, leading them to an unbeaten streak of six matches (W2, D4). As Wolves aim to end their eight-match winless streak on the road in the Premier League (D2, L6), they face the daunting task of overcoming an opponent they’ve defeated just once in their last ten head-to-head encounters (D3, L6).
A pivotal battle is anticipated between Marcus Rashford and returning Wolves wing-back Matt Doherty. Rashford’s prolific form last season, coupled with Doherty’s undefeated record against Manchester United as a Wolves player, sets the stage for an intriguing clash.
🔑 Key Stat: Manchester United has triumphed in six of their last eight opening day fixtures (L2), with both defeats occurring at Old Trafford.
🚑 Injury Update:
– Diallo A. (Knee Injury) – Out
– Greenwood M. (Inactive) – Out
– Heaton T. (Calf Injury) – Out
– Henderson D. (Thigh Injury) – Out
– Mainoo K. (Ankle Injury) – Out
– Malacia T. (Muscle Injury) – Out
– Martial A. (Thigh Injury) – Out
– Hojlund R. (Lower Back Injury) – Questionable
🏟️ Match Information:
– Referee: Hooper S. (Eng)
– Venue: Old Trafford (Manchester)
The stage is set for an exhilarating curtain-raiser as Manchester United and Wolves clash in a battle of determination and aspirations. Stay tuned for an enthralling kickoff at Old Trafford! ⚽🏆
Our Prediction: Manchester United 2 – 0 Wolves
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