Everton host Manchester United in a crucial Premier League clash as both sides look to strengthen their push for European qualification. With the gap to the top six growing, the pressure is firmly on the home side to respond after a disappointing result last time out.
Match News and Current Form
Everton enter this fixture needing a strong response after a damaging 2-1 home defeat to Bournemouth. The result ended a six-game unbeaten league run for Everton, where they had recorded two wins and three draws. More concerning for manager David Moyes is the continued drop in standards at home, which has undermined their European ambitions.
The Merseyside club have not won at home since defeating Nottingham Forest in December. Since then, they have picked up two draws and suffered three defeats on their own ground. In fact, they have lost five of their last nine home league matches, matching the number of home defeats they had across the previous 28 games. That pattern has become a major concern at a decisive stage of the season.
Manchester United arrive in better shape overall. Manchester United remain unbeaten in the Premier League in 2026 with four wins and three draws. However, they dropped points in their most recent outing, drawing 1-1 away at West Ham United, which ended a four-match winning run.
Despite that setback, United finished the previous round one point ahead of Chelsea in fifth place. Manager Michael Carrick will still demand improvement away from home. His side have won just one of their last five league matches on the road, drawing three and losing one. A key issue has been slow starts, with United conceding the opening goal in each of those five fixtures.
Head-to-Head History
Everton are chasing only their second Premier League double over United and their first since the 2013/14 campaign, when Moyes was in charge at Old Trafford. Historically, United have dominated this fixture. They have recorded more away wins at Everton than against any other opponent in Premier League history, with 19 victories. Overall, United’s 42 league wins against Everton is also the highest tally any club has managed against a single opponent in the competition.
Hot Stats and Streaks
Everton’s attacking output has been a major concern. They are averaging just 3.3 shots on target per league match, which is their second lowest figure on record in the competition.
Only three teams have conceded more first-half goals at home than Everton, who have let in nine before the interval.
United have registered more shots than any other Premier League side this season, with 417 attempts.
United have also struggled against teams managed by Moyes. They have won just one of their last five meetings against his sides, drawing once and losing three.
Key Players and Team News
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could make history for Everton. He is in position to become the first English player from the club to score in both league meetings against United since Andy King in the 1978/79 season.
For United, captain Bruno Fernandes remains the key creative force. He has been directly involved in ten goals across his last nine Premier League away appearances, scoring twice and providing eight assists. His influence in high-pressure matches continues to define United’s attacking threat.
Everton will be without Jake O’Brien after his red card against Bournemouth. United will make a late decision on the fitness of Mason Mount.
Betting Analysis
Everton’s recent struggles at home have influenced the market, with United seen as strong value despite their inconsistent away form. Their attacking numbers, unbeaten run in 2026 and strong historical record in this fixture point towards the visitors having a real opportunity to strengthen their grip on a top-four position.
With European qualification at stake and momentum on the line, this fixture carries significant importance for both clubs. Everton need a statement performance to revive their push, while United will look to maintain their upward trajectory in the closing stages of the campaign.
