Manchester United vs Fulham Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 1 February

The Manchester United vs Fulham match on Sunday, 1 February, promises to be an intriguing Premier League encounter. Taking place at the iconic Old Trafford, Manchester United host Fulham in a clash that could have significant implications for both teams. Manchester United are looking to solidify their position in the league standings, while Fulham aim to climb out of the lower ranks, raising the stakes for both sides.

Old Trafford will be the stage for this Premier League showdown, where Manchester United will look to make the most of their home advantage against Fulham. Historically, Manchester United have been dominant at home, but Fulham will be eager to upset the odds and secure a vital win. As both teams battle for crucial points, this match is set to offer plenty of action and potential betting opportunities for Premier League followers.

Manchester United vs Fulham Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Both teams to score: yes	1.78

Given the attacking strengths of both teams and their defensive vulnerabilities, our recommended betting tip is ‘Both Teams to Score’.

• Manchester United concede 1.5 goals on average in 23 matches this season, indicating a tendency to allow goals.
• The home advantage at Old Trafford will spur Manchester United to be more aggressive, likely leading to goals from both sides.
• Fulham’s ability to find the net, combined with Manchester United’s defensive issues, makes it likely that both teams will score.

Manchester United have scored in 11 consecutive Premier League matches, and their attacking force is strong enough to break through Fulham’s defence.

Betting Odds

Manchester United are the clear favourites in this Premier League clash against Fulham, with betting odds reflecting their strong home advantage at Old Trafford. The odds for a United win are currently at 1.58, suggesting confidence in their ability to secure all three points.

Betting Tip	Odds
Manchester United to win	1.58
Draw	4.35
Fulham to win	5.1

Fulham, on the other hand, are seen as underdogs with odds of 5.1, but they could offer a tempting punt for those fancying an upset. A draw, priced at 4.35, might appeal to those expecting a tighter contest. With United’s attacking prowess, punters may also look at markets for over 2.5 goals.

Manchester United Analysis & Recent Performance

Manchester United have maintained a stable form, currently sitting in 4th place in the Premier League with 38 points. Over their last five matches, they’ve secured two wins and three draws, showcasing their ability to grind out results even under pressure. Their recent 3-2 victory away at Arsenal was particularly impressive, highlighting their resilience and attacking prowess.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Arsenal	Manchester United	2 – 3 (Win)	Premier League	Jan 25, 2026
Manchester United	Manchester City	2 – 0 (Win)	Premier League	Jan 17, 2026
Manchester United	Brighton	1 – 2 (Loss)	FA Cup	Jan 11, 2026
Burnley	Manchester United	2 – 2 (Draw)	Premier League	Jan 7, 2026
Leeds	Manchester United	1 – 1 (Draw)	Premier League	Jan 4, 2026

Recent Form:
Manchester United’s attack has been reliable, averaging 1.80 goals per game across their last five fixtures. They’ve scored in every game during this period, totalling 9 goals while conceding 6. However, defensive lapses have been evident, as they managed just one clean sheet. Their home performance has been solid, with a win ratio of 40% in their recent home games, indicating a relatively strong showing at Old Trafford.

Team Dynamics:

• WWLDD

Key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, the top scorer with 8 goals, continue to be crucial in United’s attack. Despite their scoring capabilities, the team’s tendency to concede goals has been a concern, with an average of 1.20 goals conceded per game in the last five matches. This suggests an area that requires improvement to strengthen their defensive solidity and maintain their position in the top four.

Manchester United Suspensions & Injuries

Manchester United approach this Premier League match without any suspensions, which bodes well for maintaining tactical continuity. However, injuries to key players such as Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee could pose challenges. De Ligt’s back injury is particularly significant as it removes a crucial defensive option. His absence may force Michael Carrick to rely heavily on Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez to anchor the defence. Joshua Zirkzee’s strain injury limits attacking flexibility, reducing options for rotation or tactical shifts up front.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Matthijs de Ligt	Back injury	Early February 2026
Joshua Zirkzee	Strain injury	Early February 2026
Patrick Dorgu	Hamstring injury	Mid April 2026

The absence of these players will likely see Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes taking on increased responsibilities, especially in controlling the midfield and linking play. While Patrick Dorgu is listed as injured, his inclusion in the starting lineup suggests he is fit to play, which should bolster the midfield. This continuity in midfield presence is vital for maintaining United’s tactical shape and pressing strategy.

With de Ligt and Zirkzee sidelined, the team’s depth is tested, potentially affecting their ability to adapt mid-game. This could influence betting markets, as Manchester United might be seen as slightly less formidable defensively without de Ligt, impacting the odds in what is expected to be a closely contested match against Fulham.

Manchester United Key Players

Bryan Mbeumo stands out as Manchester United’s top scorer, with 8 goals this season. His prowess in front of goal is crucial for United’s attacking strategy, often exploiting defensive gaps with his sharp movements and clinical finishing. Mbeumo’s ability to drift wide and cut inside makes him a constant threat and a vital component of United’s forward line.

In midfield, Bruno Fernandes is the playmaker who orchestrates the team’s attacking moves. His vision and passing range are instrumental in breaking down opposition defences. Alongside him, Casemiro provides the necessary defensive solidity, breaking up attacks and setting the tempo from deep. Their partnership in midfield is central to United’s tactical approach, balancing creativity with defensive resilience.

Expected lineup for Manchester United

• Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens
• Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, Luke Shaw
• Midfielders: Patrick Dorgu, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Amad, Bruno Fernandes
• Forward: Bryan Mbeumo

At the back, Lisandro Martínez and Harry Maguire form a formidable defensive partnership. Martínez’s tenacity and Maguire’s aerial dominance are key strengths that United will rely on to keep Fulham’s attacks at bay. Luke Shaw’s ability to support both defence and attack as a left-back adds another dimension to United’s game, making these defensive players pivotal in maintaining a solid foundation while contributing to offensive movements.

Manchester United Tactics and Formation

Manchester United Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Bryan Mbeumo
• Midfield Pivot: Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo
• Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on controlled possession and high pressing.

Manchester United consistently deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balance between defensive solidity and attacking flair. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo form the midfield pivot, offering defensive cover and facilitating transitions. Bruno Fernandes operates centrally in an advanced role, orchestrating play and linking up with Bryan Mbeumo up front.

Defensively, the backline features Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, and Luke Shaw, with Senne Lammens in goal. Despite only one clean sheet in their last five games, the defensive unit is adept at handling pressure and maintaining a structured setup.

Offensively, Manchester United focus on controlled possession and high pressing. This strategy aims to disrupt the opposition’s build-up play and capitalise on turnovers, with Amad and Patrick Dorgu providing width and pace on the flanks.

Fulham Analysis & Recent Performance

Fulham’s recent form shows a mixed bag with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. Their latest outing saw them secure a 2-1 victory over Brighton, demonstrating their ability to edge out close contests at home.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Fulham	Brighton	2 – 1 (Win)	Premier League	24 Jan 2026
Leeds	Fulham	1 – 0 (Loss)	Premier League	17 Jan 2026
Fulham	Middlesbrough	3 – 1 (Win)	FA Cup	10 Jan 2026
Fulham	Chelsea	2 – 1 (Win)	Premier League	7 Jan 2026
Fulham	Liverpool	2 – 2 (Draw)	Premier League	4 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Fulham have been consistent in front of goal, averaging 1.80 goals per game over their last five fixtures. However, defensive fragility remains a concern as they have conceded an average of 1.20 goals per match and failed to keep a clean sheet during this period. Despite these defensive lapses, they have managed to find the back of the net in four out of their last five games, indicating their attacking prowess.

Away from home, Fulham’s performance has been slightly less impressive, winning only 40% of their last 10 away matches. They have struggled to maintain defensive solidity on the road, with a win ratio of just 0.30 in away fixtures this season. This inconsistency could be an area of concern as they prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford.

In terms of their league position, Fulham sit 7th in the Premier League with 34 points. Their overall season performance has seen them score 32 goals, equating to an average of 1.39 goals per game. Key player Harry Wilson, who has netted 8 goals this season, continues to be a pivotal figure in their attacking lineup.

• WLWWD

Fulham Suspensions & Injuries

Fulham face a few injury concerns ahead of their clash against Manchester United, with Rodrigo Muniz and Sasa Lukic sidelined due to hamstring injuries. Muniz’s expected return in early February offers some hope, but Lukic will be absent until late February. Meanwhile, Kenny Tete remains doubtful with a knock, creating a potential gap in Fulham’s defensive setup.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Rodrigo Muniz	Hamstring injury	Early February 2026
Kenny Tete	Knock	Doubtful
Sasa Lukic	Hamstring injury	Late February 2026

The absence of Lukic and Muniz could see Marco Silva opting for tactical adjustments to maintain midfield stability and attacking options. With Emile Smith Rowe and Alex Iwobi available, Fulham may rely on their creative abilities to compensate for Lukic’s absence. In attack, Raúl Jiménez is expected to lead the line, shouldering the responsibility in Muniz’s absence.

These injuries could influence Fulham’s strategy, possibly leading to a more conservative approach at Old Trafford. The unavailability of key players like Lukic may also impact Fulham’s betting odds, as their depth in midfield is slightly compromised, which could be a decisive factor against a formidable Manchester United side.

Fulham Key Players

Fulham’s attacking prowess is spearheaded by their top scorer, Harry Wilson, who has scored 8 goals this season. His ability to find the back of the net from midfield is crucial, providing a dual threat of scoring and creating opportunities. Wilson’s vision and skill in midfield make him a formidable playmaker, and his performance against Manchester United could be pivotal.

The defensive line is anchored by Joachim Andersen, whose leadership and aerial strength are vital for Fulham’s defensive solidity. Alongside him, the full-back pairing of Antonee Robinson and Timothy Castagne offers both defensive stability and attacking width, crucial for counter-attacks.

Expected lineup for Fulham

• Goalkeeper: Bernd Leno
• Defenders: Joachim Andersen, Jorge Cuenca, Antonee Robinson, Timothy Castagne
• Midfielders: Harry Wilson, Alex Iwobi, Sander Berge, Emile Smith Rowe, Kevin
• Forward: Raúl Jiménez

In midfield, Sander Berge and Alex Iwobi are expected to control the tempo and provide the link between defence and attack. Berge’s physicality and Iwobi’s creativity are instrumental in Fulham’s tactical setup, allowing them to transition quickly from defence to offence. Up front, Raúl Jiménez’s role as the target man is to hold up play and bring others into the game, leveraging his experience and aerial ability to challenge Manchester United’s defence.

Fulham Tactics and Formation

Fulham Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Raúl Jiménez
• Midfield Pivot: Alex Iwobi and Sander Berge
• Defensive Strength: Solid backline with Andersen and Cuenca
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on counter-attacking and exploiting wing play.

Fulham’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Marco Silva is crafted to balance defensive resilience with attacking fluidity. In midfield, Alex Iwobi and Sander Berge are pivotal, combining defensive shielding with forward thrusts to initiate attacks. Their ability to control the tempo and distribute effectively is crucial.

Offensively, Raúl Jiménez leads the line as the central striker, supported by the creative spark of Emile Smith Rowe in the attacking midfield role. Wingers Harry Wilson and Kevin provide width and pace, crucial for Fulham’s counter-attacking style, aiming to exploit spaces left by opponents.

Defensively, the partnership of Joachim Andersen and Jorge Cuenca in central defence offers stability, though the team have struggled with clean sheets, failing to secure one in their last five matches. Their reliance on quick transitions and structured defensive blocks remains key to their strategy at Old Trafford.

Manchester United vs Fulham Head-to-Head Record

Manchester United have dominated Fulham in their head-to-head record, boasting 31 wins out of 43 encounters, while Fulham have managed just 5 victories. The last time these two met in the Premier League, it ended in a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage in August 2025.

The last time Manchester United hosted Fulham at Old Trafford in the Premier League, they secured a narrow 1-0 victory in August 2024. United’s home advantage has been significant, with Fulham struggling to make a mark at Old Trafford.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Fulham	Manchester United	1 – 1	Premier League	2025-08-24
Manchester United	Fulham	1 – 1 (Extra time: 0 – 0) (Penalty shoot-out: 3 – 4)	FA Cup	2025-03-02
Fulham	Manchester United	0 – 1	Premier League	2025-01-26
Manchester United	Fulham	1 – 0	Premier League	2024-08-16
Manchester United	Fulham	1 – 2	Premier League	2024-02-24