Manchester United is gearing up to kick off their EFL Cup title defense as they face Crystal Palace in the third round. The Red Devils are the reigning champions of the EFL Cup, having secured victory over Newcastle United in the final last season, marking their fifth triumph in the competition.
In contrast, Crystal Palace has yet to claim the EFL Cup, though they came close in 2016 when they faced Manchester United in the final, ultimately losing 2-1 to the Red Devils. Currently, Palace is enjoying a decent run of form, having won two of their last six Premier League matches.
For Manchester United, it’s an opportunity to secure a win as Crystal Palace are set to be without five key players – Michael Olise, Matheus Franca, Jefferson Lerma, James Tomkins, and Naouirou Ahamada are unavailable. However, Dean Henderson may make his Crystal Palace debut against his former club in the EFL Cup, as well as Altay Bayindir.
While Sofyan Amrabat might earn his first start of the season. The availability of Harry Maguire and Mason Mount is uncertain, with eight players confirmed as missing for the home side.
Head to Head:
- Total matches: 54
- Manchester United wins: 33
- Crystal Palace wins: 9
- Draws: 12
Predicted Lineup for Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace:
Manchester United lineup:
Bayindir; Dalot, Varane, Evans, Reguilon; McTominay, Amrabat; Fernandes, Mejbri, Garnacho; Hojlund
Crystal Palace predicted lineup:
Henderson; Mitchell, Guehi, Richards, Clyne; Hughes, Riedewald; Schlupp, Eze, Rak-Sakyi; Mateta
