Preview & Prediction: Fulham vs Manchester United

Saturday, August 23, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM ET (15:00 UK) Venue: Craven Cottage, London Broadcast Information: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US)

Fulham host Manchester United at Craven Cottage in a Matchweek 2 clash that promises intrigue and intensity in the 2025-26 Premier League season. Marco Silva’s Fulham are buoyed by a 2-1 loss to Brighton in their opener, where their attacking intent, led by Raúl Jiménez and Emile Smith Rowe, showed promise despite defensive lapses. Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, kicked off with a 3-2 win over Sunderland, with Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho displaying flashes of brilliance. This matchup pits Fulham’s high-pressing, fluid style against United’s transitional, attacking approach, with key battles in midfield and on the flanks likely to shape the outcome. Craven Cottage’s intimate atmosphere will amplify the stakes, as Fulham aim to exploit their strong home form and United look to build momentum under Amorim’s fresh vision. Expect a lively, open contest with both sides eager to make an early statement.

Insights

• Fulham’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton saw them create chances, with Smith Rowe scoring, but they conceded late. They won 10 of 19 home games in 2024-25.
• Manchester United’s 3-2 victory over Sunderland highlighted their attacking flair, with Rashford netting twice. They won four of their last seven away games last season.
• Fulham’s 4-2-3-1 setup relies on quick transitions, with Jiménez leading the line and Smith Rowe providing creativity. United’s 4-3-3 emphasizes pace, with Kobbie Mainoo anchoring midfield.
• Smith Rowe vs. United’s Casemiro will be a key matchup, as Smith Rowe’s movement could exploit Casemiro’s lack of mobility.
• Fulham won their last home game against United 2-1 in 2024-25, but United have won five of the last seven Premier League meetings overall.
• A win could boost Fulham’s mid-table ambitions, while United aim to solidify their top-four push under Amorim.
• Fulham’s Tom Cairney is doubtful with an ankle issue, while United’s Luke Shaw remains sidelined, weakening their left flank.
• Craven Cottage’s vocal fans will create a intense atmosphere, with United’s traveling supporters pushing for a response after a mixed 2024-25.

Match Forecasts

• Raúl Jiménez could test United’s defense with his physicality, potentially scoring from crosses or set pieces.
• United’s Marcus Rashford, revitalized under Amorim, may exploit Fulham’s high line with his pace and finishing.
• Fulham’s set-piece threat, with five goals from corners in 2024-25, could target United’s inconsistent aerial defending.
• Substitutes like Fulham’s Adama Traoré or United’s Amad Diallo could shift the game late with their speed and flair.
• United’s transitional play may expose Fulham’s full-backs, particularly if Antonee Robinson pushes forward.
• Expect an open first half with both teams attacking, followed by a more tactical second half as managers adjust.
• If level late, Fulham’s home crowd could inspire a decisive moment, but United’s attacking depth makes them dangerous in stoppage time.

Match Facts

• Fulham have won two of 12 Premier League matches against United since 2001, with two draws and eight losses. Their last meeting at Craven Cottage ended 2-1 to Fulham.
• Craven Cottage, capacity 25,700, saw Fulham lose only five home games in 2024-25, making it a tough venue.
• Referee Andre Marriner, officiating this match, averaged 3.5 yellow cards per game in 2024-25 and officiated United’s 2-0 win over Tottenham last season.
• Sky Sports will broadcast live in the UK, with coverage starting at 14:30 UK. Peacock streams the match in the US at 10:00 AM ET.
• London’s weather forecast predicts partly cloudy skies, 19°C (66°F), with a 10% chance of rain, ideal for fluid football.
• A Fulham win would mark their 100th Premier League home victory. United are chasing their 250th top-flight win since 2010.
• Marcus Rashford is three goals shy of 100 Premier League goals for United, a milestone he could reach in this match.