Manchester United's hopes of a strong finish to 2025 suffered a blow after they were held to a dramatic 4-4 draw by Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday night.
Thriller at Old Trafford Sees Points Shared
The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish. United seized an early advantage with goals from Amad Diallo and Casemiro, though Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo kept the visitors in touch before half-time.
The second half began disastrously for the Red Devils, as Evanilson and Marcus Tavernier scored to put Bournemouth ahead. United showed resilience to fight back through Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha, regaining the lead. However, Eli Junior Kroupi had the final say, netting a late equaliser to secure a memorable point for the Cherries.
League Position and Immediate Consequences
The single point leaves Manchester United in sixth place in the Premier League table, level on points with Liverpool who sit seventh. The result intensifies the battle for Champions League qualification.
Erik ten Hag's squad now faces immediate challenges. Key players Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations. Furthermore, Casemiro will serve a one-match suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season against Bournemouth.
Comparing the Fixture Lists: United, Liverpool, and Chelsea
The coming weeks are crucial. Here is how Manchester United's next five Premier League fixtures compare to those of their direct rivals, Liverpool and Chelsea.
Manchester United's next five Premier League fixtures:
- Aston Villa (A) - December 21
- Newcastle (H) - December 26
- Wolves (H) - December 30
- Leeds United (A) - January 4
- Burnley (A) - January 7
Liverpool's next five Premier League fixtures:
- Tottenham (A) - December 20
- Wolves (H) - December 27
- Leeds United (H) - January 1
- Fulham (A) - January 4
- Arsenal (A) - January 8
Chelsea's next five Premier League fixtures:
- Newcastle United (A) - December 20
- Aston Villa (H) - December 27
- Bournemouth (H) - December 30
- Man City (A) - January 4
- Fulham (A) - January 7
United's campaign resumes this weekend with a tough trip to Villa Park to face an Aston Villa side also in the European mix. Navigating this period without several important players will be a significant test of the squad's depth and Ten Hag's tactical nous as they aim to stay in the top-four race.
