Everton and Manchester United will clash this Saturday, February 22, at 9:30 AM (Brasilia Time) at Goodison Park, Liverpool, as part of the Premier League. This match is particularly significant for both teams, who are desperately trying to secure points to improve their standings and distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Coming off the back of some improved form, Everton currently sits 14th in the league with 30 points, having recently achieved four wins in their last five matches, including a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. The Toffees are eager to build on this positive momentum and aim for another win at their home ground. David Moyes, the manager, is hopeful but faces challenges as key players like Seamus Coleman and Dominic Calvert-Lewin are sidelined by injuries.
On the other hand, Manchester United finds itself just one point behind Everton, sitting 15th with 29 points. The Red Devils are experiencing turbulence this season, having lost their latest encounter 1-0 to Tottenham. Rúben Amorim, the new head coach, needs his squad to react urgently to accumulate points and leap above the relegation battle.
The significance of this match cannot be understated. A win for Everton could secure their upper hand, potentially leading them away from relegation concerns and re-establishing them as competitive contenders. The same goes for Manchester United, whose faint hopes of competing for European football hinge on their ability to collect points during this decisive stretch of the season.
Carlos Alcaraz, who recently joined Everton on loan from Flamengo, expressed his enthusiasm to return to the Premier League, stating, "I was happy during my time at Flamengo, but things occurred involving others. So, even before Everton showed interest, I was contemplating returning to the Premier League because it's the best league in the world." His addition could prove valuable for Everton as they seek stability.
United's Amorim emphasized the importance of teamwork, sharing, "This game is more important than training, and on the pitch, it is time to demonstrate improvement." His call for unity reflects the pressing need for the squad to focus and deliver results after inconsistencies characterized their current campaign.
Both teams are facing notable injury lists. Everton will miss several players, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin due to injury concerns. Similarly, Manchester United is also struggling with several key players, including Jonny Evans and Mason Mount, who are listed as injured. This adds another layer of unpredictability to the match, as both managers will need to adapt their strategies accordingly.
Regarding team lineups, Everton is expected to field Jordan Pickford; Tarkowski, O’Brien, Branthwaite; Mykolenko; Gana Gueye, Carlos Alcaraz, and Garner; Harrison, Beto, and Lindstrom. Meanwhile, Manchester United is likely to field André Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, and Harry Maguire; Dalot, Bruno Fernandes, and Dorgu; Zirkzee, Hojlund, and Garnacho.
Fans can catch the live broadcast of this thrilling fixture on ESPN and Disney+, with early tuning recommended to not miss any action from Goodison Park.
Overall, the clash between these two historic rivals is poised to be compelling for the Premier League narrative this season. For both sides, the stakes are high as they face off to secure precious points, and gain momentum for the final stretch of the league, making this matchup one to watch.