Manchester United will take on Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday in a match that could determine Erik ten Hag’s future at the club. After a poor start to the season, including a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford and a 3-3 Europa League draw with Porto despite leading by two goals, pressure is mounting on the Dutch manager. On the other hand, Aston Villa comes into the match full of confidence after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League. As both teams prepare for this crucial Premier League fixture, here are six key players to watch.
1. Jhon Durán | Aston Villa
Jhon Durán, Aston Villa’s 20-year-old rising star, has been sensational this season. Recently nominated for the Premier League Goal of the Month for September, Durán has impressed both as a starter and off the bench. He scored the winning goal in Villa’s midweek victory over Bayern Munich and has netted six goals in eight appearances in all competitions. Durán leads Europe’s top five leagues with the most goals as a substitute this season and has five match-winning goals.
Manchester United must be cautious of his lethal finishing, especially if he comes on as a late-impact substitute. He also averages the most goals per 90 minutes across Europe’s top seven Leagues this season (1.75). The next player closest to him is Porto striker Samu Omorodion (1.57), while Manchester City’s forward Erling Halaand is ranked third (1.50)
2. Rasmus Højlund | Manchester United
Manchester United’s new attacking hope, Rasmus Højlund, is set to play a pivotal role in the clash against Aston Villa. After battling a hamstring injury in preseason, Højlund made substitute appearances in Premier League games against Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur, and he got his first goal of the season in the 3-3 draw with Porto in the Europa League. The 21-year-old Danish striker will be eager to build on that momentum as he competes for a starting spot.
Last season, Højlund scored 10 league goals in 32 appearances, including two crucial goals against Aston Villa in both the home and away games. At Old Trafford, he scored his first League goal of the season in a 3:2 win and scored the opener in a 2:1 win at Villa Park. Erik ten Hag hopes Højlund’s presence can lift Manchester United and secure a much-needed victory.
3. Ollie Watkins | Aston Villa
Ollie Watkins remains one of Aston Villa’s most consistent performers, having scored four goals and provided two assists in six Premier League matches this season. Watkins’ tireless work rate and ability to stretch defenses create space for teammates like Durán, making him a key player in Villa’s attacking setup. Watkins’ experience and poise in front of goal could be a major factor as Villa looks to capitalize on Manchester United’s defensive struggles.
4. Kobbie Mainoo | Manchester United
At 19 years old, Kobbie Mainoo emerged as a bright spot in Manchester United’s turbulent season. Though he sustained a minor injury against Tottenham, the young midfielder is expected to be available for Sunday’s game. His composure and creativity in midfield could provide the spark United desperately need as they try to recover from recent poor form. Mainoo’s potential return to the starting lineup could be crucial for Erik ten Hag as he seeks to steady the ship.
5. Pau Torres | Aston Villa
Pau Torres has been an ever-present force for Aston Villa, playing every minute of their Premier League and Champions League campaigns. The Spanish center-back’s composed defensive play and ability to build attacks from the back have made him a key figure under Unai Emery. Torres contributed an assist in Villa’s win over Bayern and continues to provide stability to their backline. Torres will be tasked with containing United’s attackers, particularly Højlund and Marcus Rashford, in what could be a decisive battle at Villa Park.
6. Marcus Rashford | Manchester United
After a slow start to the season, Marcus Rashford is beginning to find his rhythm. The England international has scored four goals and registered two assists in his last six games, including a goal and an assist in the 3-3 draw with Porto. His pace and ability to stretch defenses will be vital to Manchester United’s chances of breaking down Aston Villa’s defense. Rashford will be one to watch as United seek to avoid further embarrassment and keep Erik ten Hag in the dugout for a little longer.
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