Match preview – Old Trafford set for a lively encounter
Old Trafford will be buzzing on 01/02/2026 as Manchester United, fourth in the table, host seventh-placed Fulham in a Premier League clash that promises intensity and plenty of narrative. Manchester United arrive on the back of an impressive 3-2 victory over Arsenal on 25 January, a game that swung their momentum and where Bryan Mbeumo earned the best-player billing in that fixture. United’s home record shows a team that can outscore opponents at Theatre of Dreams — 20 goals scored at home and only 13 conceded — which underpins their 4th-place standing with 38 points from 23 matches.
Fulham will not travel as mere spectators. The Cottagers have been enjoying a hot patch of form themselves, with six wins in their last ten and a 2-1 victory over Brighton on 24 January in which Harry Wilson was singled out as the match’s standout performer. Fulham’s numbers are more modest overall — 32 goals for and 32 against — and their away record is less convincing: only 11 goals scored on the road while conceding 18. Those away figures highlight the challenge they face breaking down a United side that has been sturdy at home.
Tactical edge and recent trends
Both teams have shown a tendency for matches with goals this season. Manchester United’s fixtures have produced over 2.5 goals in roughly 61% of their games, while Fulham’s matches cross that line at about 52%. The season’s earlier meeting between these sides ended 1-1, showing that while they can trade blows, tight encounters are possible. Statistically, United boast higher attacking output per match — more total shots, shots inside the box and a healthy number of dangerous attacks — all of which will be crucial against a Fulham side that defends sturdily in some away fixtures but has conceded 18 goals on the road.
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Betting suggestion
Bookmakers make Manchester United the clear favourite at 1.59 (about a 62.9% implied probability). Given United’s superior home scoring record, Fulham’s modest away attack (11 away goals) and recent form trends for both sides, the most logical market is 1X2. Recommendation: back Manchester United to win. It’s the market with the clearest value here based on home advantage, recent results and the price offered. Stake responsibly.
