Manchester United has been a shadow of their former selves this season, precariously sitting in 13th place. Far removed from the heady standard they have always set for themselves, the two wins in the last seven Premier League games indicate the depths the club has plunged into. United’s problems are an all-round affair: a porous defense that has seen them let in 26 goals in 17 games, and an attack without that much-vaunted cutting edge, with only 24 goals scored this season. The inability to keep clean sheets and a lack of clinical finishing means they have dropped points from a winning position on many occasions. Also, United’s away form could have been better as they have won only once in their last five away games in the league this season. Despite all of these difficulties, on paper, the quality of United can’t be denied as they will try to get up off the mat against Aston Villa, a match that holds significant importance for both teams.
On the other hand, Aston Villa has been a revelation this season, punching well above their weight. Their recent 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich, a team known for its attacking prowess, in the Champions League showed the resilience and organisation qualities that have been the bedrock of their success this season. Villa sit comfortably in the top half of the table, thanks for the most part to their solid defensive record, having conceded a mere 18 goals in 17 games. Their home form has been quite impressive, with five wins and two draws from eight matches played at home. Their confidence is high in this game, whereas Villa seeks to keep their run of form going. Given the solidness in both teams’ defences and how United struggles to score goals, the under 3.25 goals bet is quite adequate to predict in this match.