Mansion Sports – The Premier League 2025/2026 delivers another exciting fixture as Manchester United host Sunderland at Old Trafford in Matchweek 7. The match is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 15:00 local time.

This contest carries significant weight for both sides. United are under mounting pressure following a difficult run, while Sunderland arrive full of confidence as a newly promoted team eager to prove their worth. 

One side looks for redemption, the other seeks validation—making this matchup a compelling narrative.

Manchester United’s Situation Ahead of the Match

United continue to struggle under Ruben Amorim, having won only two of their opening six league matches. A 1-3 defeat to Brentford last weekend deepened doubts about the team’s trajectory.

This fixture also marks a milestone for Amorim—his 50th match in charge of Manchester United. Intriguingly, none of the club’s last five permanent managers managed to secure victory in their 50th game, a statistic that only increases the pressure.

Even so, history remains on United’s side. The Red Devils boast an impressive record against promoted sides, going unbeaten in their last 24 Premier League encounters. 

Against Sunderland specifically, United have dominated, winning 22 of the last 30 league meetings, drawing six, and losing just twice. Such records will be crucial in restoring confidence.

Sunderland’s Momentum Heading Into Old Trafford

In contrast, Sunderland approach the clash with renewed belief and excellent form. Under manager Regis Le Bris, they have collected 11 points from six matches, marking their best top-flight start since the 1967/68 season.

Their current four-match unbeaten run, including a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, has lifted morale even higher. 

Le Bris has even been nominated for Premier League Manager of the Month for his role in Sunderland’s resurgence.

However, history presents a daunting obstacle. Sunderland have won at Old Trafford only once in their last 31 visits. 

Furthermore, across 29 away matches in the Premier League against Manchester United and Manchester City, they have secured just one victory. 

Despite this, Sunderland’s youthful squad is determined to defy the odds and demonstrate that being a promoted side is no barrier to competing at the highest level.

Predicted Lineups for Manchester United vs Sunderland 2025

Manchester United (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Bayindir
• Defenders: Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw
• Midfielders: Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dorgu
• Attacking Midfielders: Mbeumo, Cunha
• Forward: Sesko
• Coach: Ruben Amorim

United will be without Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui due to injury. However, Casemiro returns from suspension, and Amad Diallo is back after a family-related absence. Amorim may reshuffle his defense, with Leny Yoro likely to replace Harry Maguire following the team’s defensive struggles against Brentford.

Sunderland (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: Roefs
• Defenders: Hume, Mukiele, Alderete, Masuaku
• Midfielders: Rigg, Xhaka, Sadiki
• Forwards: Talbi, Isidor, Le Fee
• Coach: Regis Le Bris

Sunderland face their own challenges, missing Habib Diarra, Romaine Mundle, Dennis Cirkin, Aji Alese, and Leo Hjelde due to injury. 

Reinildo Mandava is also suspended. Still, there is good news with the return of Nordi Mukiele, while Granit Xhaka will anchor the midfield. 

Xhaka has been in outstanding form, recording three consecutive assists and potentially eyeing a new record if his creative streak continues.

Conclusion

The clash at Old Trafford goes beyond tactics—it is a battle of mentality. For United, it is an opportunity to silence criticism and ease the pressure on Amorim. 

For Sunderland, it is a chance to extend their momentum and prove they can challenge Premier League giants.

With history, form, and pressure colliding, this matchup promises plenty of drama. The predicted lineups for Manchester United vs Sunderland 2025 raise the question: will the outcome follow expectations, or could Sunderland spring one of the season’s biggest surprises?