We’ve got an EPL match full of drama to take in on Wednesday’s slate. Burnley are in the midst of a heated relegation battle, and Manchester United have plenty of off-pitch drama to deal with. Two teams mired in struggle — who comes out on top?
Manchester United are -140 favorites to win at DraftKings Sportsbook, and the Clarets are +370 to upset with +300 odds of a draw. Let’s dig into a prediction and pick for this Burnley vs. Manchester United match.
Burnley vs. Manchester United prediction, pick
The big headline going into this game will be about Manchester United’s manager situation. After a contentious tenure, Ruben Amorim has been sacked and the club will be moving in a new direction.
Disagreements over tactics and personnel created a massive divide between Amorim and the rest of management. Now, the club will have to navigate the rest of the season while searching for a new manager. Rumors are flying that former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may step in to steer the club through the remainder of the season, but nothing is set in stone as of yet.
Meanwhile, the club will lean on its veterans for leadership. Players like Bruno Fernandes (once healthy), Harry Maguire and Casemiro need to step up and lead to keep the season on track, as does Matheus Cunha. Despite Amorim’s tumultuous stint, United are in sixth place and firmly in the race for European football next season. Setting the tone against Burnley would make for a great start.
Burnley will hope to capitalize on United’s instability and pick up some points. The Clarets sit in 19th place in the table, six points behind safety. Wins are desperately needed, as manager Scott Parker acknowledged their lack of belief after a loss to Brighton. It sounds like reinforcements may be on the way during the January transfer window, but for now, they have to stick to their own.
Manchester United’s troubles do take some certainty away from their outlook here. But I see that as opportunity for their value, not doubt. Manager troubles don’t change the fact that United are the better team by far; they’ll take this game in high-scoring fashion.
