Newcastle confirm current superiority against Manchester United

Manchester United were completely dominated at St James Park against a Newcastle side of extreme intensity and solidity at Premier League

In the most anticipated game of Sunday’s Matchday 29 Premier League round of matches, Newcastle measured forces against Manchester United at St. James’ Park in tussle at the top of the table.

Showing confidence in the players who outplayed Nottingham Forest before the international break, Howe kept the same line-up to seek victory against the Red Devils.

At the other end, Ten Hag made two changes to Manchester United from the line-up that beat Fulham 3-1 in the FA Cup, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back in place of Sancho.

Manchester United withstood heavy pressure in first half

Newcastle lived up to expectations by showing broad dominance of possession control and occupation in the attacking field, amassing dangerous chances and over 10 shots.

However, Manchester United’s situation raised concerns due to a nil performance offensively during the first half, as well as not being able to contain the pressure with too many spaces given away in the defensive system.

Saint-Maximin deserves a positive mention for causing the Red Devils several problems on the left side. Meanwhile, Trippier and Murphy combined well on the right and offered danger to the opposition’s marking. The score was not opened thanks to great saves by De Gea against Isak and Willock.

Newcastle were able to turn their superiority into goals after the break

Manchester United’s first shot on target came in the 56th minute, when Antony’s low shot was parried away by Willock.

Ten Hag’s team managed to adjust their defensive positioning after the break, but it was not enough to prevent Willock’s goal. The ball is floated in from the right by Guimaraes and Saint-Maximin found Willock unmarked to finish from close range.

Newcastle continued to attack down the flanks and opted to attack more on the flanks while Manchester United went for the attacking third with shorter passes.

In the final stretch of the match, Ten Hag opted to make the team more offensive by taking off McTominay, Lisandro Martínez and Varane with the entries of Lindelof, Pellistri and Fred, playing in 3-5-2. However, Newcastle sealed the win in stoppage time, with Callum Wilson heading in Trippier’s corner.

United seek to avoid tragedy in final straight of season

Newcastle’s performance against Manchester United definitely shows how ready they are for the group stage of the upcoming UEFA Champions League.

Manchester United, meanwhile, remain increasingly concerned not to lose their place, a disappointing final stretch for a side who had once dreamed of the Premier League title.