The Premier League’s second weekend sees Fulham welcome Manchester United to Craven Cottage in a contest that feels significant despite its early-season billing. Both sides dropped points in their opening fixtures and will view this clash as a chance to establish rhythm and direction heading into the campaign. Fulham vs Man United takes place on Sunday 24 August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 4.30pm BST.
Team news
Marco Silva faces a number of selection calls after Fulham’s 1-1 draw away to Brighton. Ryan Sessegnon remains a fitness doubt, while Rodrigo Muniz could be rewarded with a start following his decisive cameo at the Amex Stadium. New signing Emile Smith Rowe is also pushing for inclusion from the off after a brief debut appearance last weekend.
For United, Ruben Amorim may look to hand Benjamin Sesko his first start, though there is merit in retaining the attacking trio of Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, who caused Arsenal problems despite United’s eventual defeat. In goal, Andre Onana is available and could return after Altay Bayindir’s costly error. Defensive issues persist, with Noussair Mazraoui doubtful and Lisandro Martinez sidelined.
Tactical analysis
Fulham will look to impose their compact defensive shape while breaking through wide areas, where the interplay between Antonee Robinson and Willian remains crucial. A key question is whether Muniz or Jimenez spearheads the attack, with the former offering greater movement in behind.
United, meanwhile, are expected to continue developing Amorim’s pressing structure. Their high-energy transitions against Arsenal were effective, though the midfield balance is still a work in progress. Sesko’s presence could stretch defences vertically, giving Mount and Cunha more space to operate between the lines.
Key players
- Rodrigo Muniz (Fulham) – His ability to disrupt United’s back line could be decisive if handed a starting role.
- Emile Smith Rowe (Fulham) – Still settling in, but his creativity and late runs into the box add a new dimension to Silva’s side.
- Benjamin Sesko (Manchester United) – A potential first start for the Slovenian striker, who offers physical presence and direct running.
- Andre Onana (Manchester United) – Likely to return in goal, his distribution will be vital to United’s build-up play.
Predicted lineups
Fulham (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Adarabioyo, Bassey, Robinson; Palhinha, Reed; Wilson, Pereira, Willian; Muniz.
Manchester United (4-3-3): Onana; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Shaw; Mainoo, Mount, Fernandes; Mbeumo, Sesko, Cunha.
Conclusion / Prediction
Fulham’s resilience and home advantage should make this a competitive encounter, but their recent record against United underlines the challenge they face. Amorim’s side demonstrated flashes of promise against Arsenal and may possess too much firepower if Sesko integrates smoothly into the attack.
It promises to be tight, but United’s extra edge in the final third could see them leave west London with all three points.
Prediction: Manchester United to win 2-1.
