Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has made a stark admission that his team is in a relegation battle as they prepare to face Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday. United's alarming decline sees them in 14th place, just seven points above the relegation zone, following a dismal December where they suffered five league defeats—a record low not seen since 1962.
Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November, acknowledged the challenges of implementing his preferred 3-4-3 system, saying, “I have to sell my idea. If I change all the time, it will be worse.” United’s poor form, including four straight losses, adds to their fans' fears of a repeat of the 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool in 2023.
Haaland Eyes Revival as Manchester City Regroup
Erling Haaland is looking to regain his prolific form as Manchester City host West Ham on Saturday. The Norwegian striker, who recently celebrated the birth of his first child, broke a four-game goal drought with a strike in City’s 2-0 win over Leicester. Haaland hopes the team’s rare six-day break will help Pep Guardiola’s side close the four-point gap to the top four.
“It’s been a difficult time, but this break has been good for us to refresh and prepare for the next phase,” Haaland said.
Chris Wood Propels Nottingham Forest’s Champions League Ambitions
Chris Wood has become the focal point of Nottingham Forest’s remarkable push for a Champions League spot. The New Zealand striker has scored 11 league goals this season, powering Forest to third place. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s tactical approach has amplified Wood’s impact, with the 33-year-old thriving as a target man.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s clash with Wolves, Wood credited his team’s chemistry, saying, “The team is doing extremely well, creating chances, and I’m fortunate to convert them.”
Premier League Fixtures
Saturday:
- Aston Villa vs Leicester
- Bournemouth vs Everton
- Brighton vs Arsenal (1730 GMT)
- Crystal Palace vs Chelsea
- Manchester City vs West Ham
- Southampton vs Brentford
- Tottenham vs Newcastle (1230 GMT)
Sunday:
- Fulham vs Ipswich (1400 GMT)
- Liverpool vs Manchester United (1630 GMT)
Monday:
- Wolves vs Nottingham Forest (2000 GMT)
