Manchester United have been on a high lately with incredible performances spanning all competitions. The club, led by manager Erik ten Hag, have been enjoying a great run of form which has seen them reach the finals of the Carabao Cup.
The club recently drew 2-2 in the Europa League in an enthralling match against Barcelona at Camp Nou. The side also sits third in the league with 46 points from 23 games, currently five points behind league leaders Manchester City.
The next five games will present United with an opportunity to win their first trophy in five years and will also see them potentially close the gap on City and Arsenal. The Old Trafford outfit could also advance to the Round of 32 of the Europa League.
Here’s a look at the next five games for Manchester United:
#1. Manchester United will next play Leicester City in the league
Following a sensational win against Leeds United in the league, United will play Leicester City on February 19. The game will take place at Old Trafford and will present the Red Devils with the opportunity to keep a stranglehold on City and Arsenal as the title race enters its last leg.
The contest will see Casemiro miss out through suspension and potentially mark the return of Antony. Lisandro Martinez will also potentially return to the side after missing out against Barcelona through suspension.
The home game could also see Marcus Rashford break his season-best tally of goals, which was achieved in the 2019-20 season, and continue his hot streak form.
#2. United will look to secure their place in the next round of the Europa League
Following their enthralling draw against Barcelona on Thursday, United will once again square off against the Catalan giants in the return leg at Old Trafford on February 23. A win will see the Red Devils make it to the Round of 16 of the Europa League.
However, defeating Jordi Alba and co. will not be an easy task as they will also be up for the challenge. Fans and critics were impressed with the way Ten Hag set up his side during the away tie and will look for a more positive approach come Thursday.
#3. Manchester United will have a shot at silverware against Newcastle United
The Carabao Cup final on Sunday, February 26, will mark United’s first final since the Europa League final loss at the hands of Villareal in 2021.
The finals will give the Red Devils a sensational opportunity to win their first trophy since Jose Mourinho led them to a 2-0 win against Ajax in 2017. Erik ten Hag has indeed done a fantastic job with the side after reaching the finals on the first time of asking.
He will look to further establish his authority within the team by winning a silverware. United will undoubtedly try to put their best foot forward and stand tall at Wembley.
#4. Manchester United return to league action against West Ham United
Currently sitting in 16th place, two points above relegation, West Ham have been having a torrid season. Hammers’ manager David Moyes could very well be the next casualty in the long list of managers during the ongoing Premier League season.
However, a win against United could turn the table and give the team a much-needed boost of positivity. Erik ten Hag will try and prevent that from happening as the two teams clash on Wednesday, March 1, at Old Trafford.
The Dutchman will also try and prevent fatigue from settling into the squad as they play several matches within a span of a few days. The team for the game could see some notable names miss out, especially given the importance of the next game.
#5. Manchester United will look to do the double against arch-rivals Liverpool
Manchester United will battle arch-rivals Liverpool, on March 5, at Anfield in what could prove to be a vital game. The Red Devils will look to stay within touching distance come March and also look to do the double over the Jurgen Klopp-led side.
Ten Hag and Manchester United’s recent turn of form started after their 2-1 win over the Merseyside club. There is no question that the team will do all it takes to defeat Liverpool, and it could also result in the culmination of a triumphant run of games.
Given that Jurgen Klopp’s side currently sits ninth in the table, 15 points behind United, a win could further rub salt into the already open wounds of the 19-time league winners.