Manchester United vs Sunderland Prediction: Team News, Lineups and Match Preview

Manchester United welcome Sunderland to Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon in a Premier League clash that feels far less predictable than it once would. The match marks United boss Ruben Amorim’s 50th game in charge, with pressure building after an inconsistent start to the 2025–26 season.

Sunderland, meanwhile, arrive in strong spirits following a bright return to the top flight. The newly-promoted Black Cats are unbeaten in four league games and sit in the top half of the table after six rounds.

Manchester United vs Sunderland Prediction and Key Details

United have lost three of their opening six league matches (W2 D1) and come off a 3-1 defeat to Brentford. While Amorim’s side edged Chelsea the week before, inconsistency and defensive struggles continue to hurt their momentum. The Red Devils have conceded 11 goals so far, leaving them 14th.

Still, the numbers offer hope for United supporters. The club is unbeaten in its last 24 Premier League matches against newly-promoted sides (W21 D3) since a loss to Watford in 2021. They have also lost only two of their last 30 league games against Sunderland, and two straight wins at Old Trafford hint at a potential revival.

Sunderland, led by manager Regis Le Bris, have collected 11 points — their best start to a top-flight campaign since 1967–68. They are on a four-game unbeaten run (W2 D2), including a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest last weekend. Le Bris was recently nominated for the Premier League Manager of the Month award after his side’s impressive early performances.

However, Sunderland’s history at Old Trafford is bleak. They have won just once in their last 31 visits in all competitions — a 1-0 success in May 2014. Against both Manchester clubs in the Premier League, their away record reads just one win in 29 attempts.

Team News and Expected Lineups

Manchester United remain without Lisandro Martinez (knee) and Noussair Mazraoui (thigh). Casemiro returns after suspension, and Amad Diallo is back following personal leave. Amorim may adjust his back three, with Leny Yoro in line to replace Harry Maguire. Bruno Fernandes, key against promoted sides, partners Casemiro in midfield. Summer signings Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko are expected to lead the attack.

Sunderland are still missing Habib Diarra, Romaine Mundle, Dennis Cirkin, Aji Alese and Leo Hjelde due to injuries. Reinildo Mandava serves the second of a three-game ban. Nordi Mukiele is available despite online speculation about a knock. Granit Xhaka, influential with three assists in his last three games, starts alongside Noah Sadiki and young talent Chris Rigg.

Predicted Manchester United XI: Bayindir; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha, Sesko.

Predicted Sunderland XI: Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Alderete, Masuaku; Rigg, Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Isidor, Le Fee.

Match Outlook and Final Prediction

This fixture once looked straightforward for United, but current form complicates matters. Sunderland have proven resilient and difficult to break down, while Amorim’s revamped forward line remains inconsistent.

The Red Devils’ historical dominance and home advantage may keep them competitive, but the Black Cats’ early-season energy could frustrate the hosts. Expect a tight, tactical battle rather than a high-scoring affair.

Our prediction: Manchester United 1–1 Sunderland.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Manchester United vs Sunderland prediction?

A 1–1 draw looks the most likely outcome, given United’s struggles and Sunderland’s solid start.

Q2: Who is missing for Manchester United?

Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui are injured. Casemiro returns from suspension.

Q3: Who is unavailable for Sunderland?

Habib Diarra, Romaine Mundle, Dennis Cirkin, Aji Alese and Leo Hjelde are injured. Reinildo Mandava is suspended.

Q4: When did Sunderland last win at Old Trafford?

They last won there in May 2014, with Sebastian Larsson scoring the winner.

Q5: How has Sunderland started the season?

They have 11 points from six games and are unbeaten in their last four Premier League matches.