| Manchester United vs Burnley | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Manchester United vs Burnley
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COMPETITION :
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Premier League
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| DATE: |
08-01-2026
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TIME:
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01.45 PM IST
12.15 AM UAE
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STADIUM
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Turf Moor
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Burnley head into this fixture severely depleted, with the Clarets currently one of the worst-affected teams in the league when it comes to absentees. Vincent Kompany’s side will be without a long list of first-team players, including Josh Cullen and Zeki Amdouni, who are both sidelined with knee injuries. Connor Roberts is struggling with a calf issue, while Axel Tuanzebe, Hannibal Mejbri and Lyle Foster are all away on Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Defensive options are also stretched, with Joe Worrall and Zian Flemming ruled out due to muscle injuries, and Jordan Beyer unavailable after suffering a hamstring problem. Burnley do, however, have a glimmer of hope in defence, as Maxime Esteve could return to the squad after missing the Brighton clash through injury.
In attack, much of Burnley’s threat is expected to come from Jaidon Anthony, who has already found the net four times during the 2025-26 campaign and will once again be tasked with providing inspiration in the final third.
Manchester United also have selection concerns, but there is some positive news for the visitors. Ruben Amorim confirmed after the draw with Leeds United that both Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount are pushing to return following injury setbacks, with the club captain potentially restored straight into the starting XI.
However, United will remain without Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui, all of whom are away at AFCON. Injuries are also expected to keep Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire out of contention.
Fletcher is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 system, with Patrick Dorgu potentially operating on the right flank, while Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Šeško are expected to lead the attack. In midfield, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have formed a dependable partnership in recent weeks and could continue together due to limited alternatives. At the back, Ayden Heaven may partner Lisandro Martínez at centre-half as United look to cope with their defensive absences.