United visit the south coast on Friday night looking to tighten their grip on a Champions League spot but face Bournemouth, who currently have their longest unbeaten run in the Premier League.
The Red Devils arrive at the Vitality Stadium with renewed vigor under interim manager Michael Carrick. Since his appointment in January, United have won more games (seven) and taken more points (22) than any other team in the division. They beat Aston Villa 3-1 last weekend and are in third place. Another win will temporarily open up a six-point gap in the battle for the top four.
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It is worth noting that captain Bruno Fernandez is in historic form; after breaking Beckham’s club assist record last week, he is chasing the Premier League single-season assist record after creating more than 6 chances in three consecutive games.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, have become the ultimate ‘unbeatable’ team in the top flight, heading into this game on a ten-game unbeaten streak. Although Andoni Illara’s side have drawn their last four league games – three of which were without a goal – they still pose a significant threat to elite teams.
The Cherries are unbeaten in their last five Premier League games against Manchester United, including a chaotic 4-4 draw at Old Trafford in December. Victory on Friday could lift Bournemouth into eighth place and reignite dreams of European qualification.
Bournemouth vs Manchester United – match preview and team news
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Date: Friday, March 20, 2026
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Match venue: Bournemouth Vitality Stadium
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Last game: Manchester United 4-4 Bournemouth (December 15, 2025, Premier League)
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Team news
bournemouth
Andoni Iraola faces a major doubt over Tyler Adams, who missed the draw against Burnley as a precaution. The hosts will certainly be without Julio Soler, Lewis Cook and Justin Kluivert. Notably, Ben Gannon-Doak returned to the bench last time out and could feature, while Adam Smith is expected to remain at right-back if Alex Jimenez remains on the bench.
Manchester United
Michael Carrick is dealing with a defensive crisis with Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt and Patrick Dolgu all ruled out. It is worth noting that Nussel Mazraoui is doubtful due to illness, while Mason Mount is suitable to rejoin the team, but is unlikely to start. It is worth noting that Manchester United’s offensive blueprint remains clear: Casemiro’s last five league goals have been assisted by Bruno Fernandez.
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form
bournemouth
Bournemouth have become experts at stalemates, drawing their last four Premier League games to extend their unbeaten run to ten games. The Cherries are just one draw away from equaling the Premier League record of five consecutive draws. Remarkably, they were clinical on Friday night, winning three of four such games this season.
Manchester United
Manchester United are the team of the match in 2026, having won seven of nine games under Michael Carrick, including high-profile wins against Manchester City and Arsenal. However, their away form remains a concern. Carrick’s only defeat came away to Newcastle, while United have won just one of their past five away games on Friday night.
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How to watch Bournemouth vs Manchester United match?
The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK. Coverage starts at 19:30 GMT, before kick-off at 20:00.
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