Manchester United are set to battle Leicester City this weekend as they strive to improve their position in the Premier League table.
Nolan James Mar 16
Leicester City's Struggles Continue
Leicester City find themselves in deep trouble, sitting 19th in the Premier League with just 17 points from 28 matches. Their return to the top flight has been nothing short of disastrous, as they have failed to mount a credible survival challenge.
Now under the leadership of Ruud van Nistelrooy, their second manager of the season, the Foxes have shown little sign of improvement. The Dutchman has yet to instill confidence in the fans, who are already bracing for an inevitable relegation battle in the Championship next season.
However, survival isn’t mathematically impossible. Leicester are just six points behind Wolves, but their current trajectory is alarming. Having lost 12 of their last 13 matches and winning just once in their last 14, the Foxes appear doomed. The gulf in quality between them and their relegation rivals further diminishes their survival hopes.
That said, with ten matches left to play, Leicester will fight to the end, and facing Manchester United provides the perfect stage for an inspired performance.
Manchester United’s Unsteady Season
Manchester United, currently 14th with 34 points from 28 games, have endured a turbulent campaign of their own. However, unlike Leicester, there is still something to salvage from their season.
The struggles under Ruben Amorim have been well-documented, with the team showing little consistency since his appointment. At times, it seemed like the Portuguese manager’s tenure was doomed to fail, as performances lacked significant improvement.
However, recent weeks have offered a glimmer of hope. A 5-2 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad in the Europa League last 16 marked a potential turning point, suggesting that the Red Devils may be finding their feet under Amorim.
It’s too early to declare a resurgence, but there are signs of progress. This weekend’s fixture presents an opportunity for United to solidify that improvement—not just by securing three points, but by delivering a dominant performance. United have often struggled against bottom-half teams, producing uninspiring displays, so this match serves as a true test of their development.
Leicester City: Spiraling Downwards
Leicester’s form has been abysmal, with five consecutive defeats:
Notably, Leicester haven’t scored a single goal in their last five matches, highlighting their severe struggles in attack.
Manchester United: Signs of Improvement
United’s recent form has been more balanced, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five outings:
Defensively, United have tightened up, and their attacking output has improved, particularly through Fernandes.
Leicester’s dismal record of 12 defeats in their last 13 league games leaves little room for optimism. In contrast, United have lost just once in their last six matches, and even that was via a penalty shootout.
The Red Devils have dominated this fixture in recent years, winning each of their last five meetings with Leicester—including two victories this season. Given the disparity in form and confidence, United should have the upper hand once again. Expect a solid away win for the Red Devils.
