Amad and Bryan Mbeumo's returns give United an attacking lift ahead of the derby; with City adding Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi, expect a high-tempo clash — punters might favour both teams to score or back over 2.5 goals, while a late Loftus-Cheek loan could strengthen United's midfield betting markets.
United boosted by AFCON returns ahead of Manchester derby
Amad and Bryan Mbeumo are back in contention for Manchester United as the club prepares to host Manchester City. Their return from AFCON provides interim boss Michael Carrick with fresh attacking options as United chase a strong run to the end of the season. The duo’s availability could change team selection and offers more firepower on the flanks for a fixture that often produces goals.
How returns affect team news and tactics
With Amad and Mbeumo fit, United can rotate wide areas and play with greater pace in transition. Carrick may opt for a more aggressive setup to exploit City’s high line, increasing the likelihood of an open game and goal-heavy betting markets.
City’s January business: Semenyo and Guehi
Manchester City have moved in the market, securing forward Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, who has started brightly with two goals in two appearances. City have also agreed a deal for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, bolstering defensive depth. Those additions reinforce City’s balance across the pitch and maintain pressure on United in the title race and domestic fixtures.
Implications for the derby and betting outlook
City’s attacking reinforcement and defensive signing suggest a team capable of both scoring and shoring up the back line. For bettors, the combination of United’s returning attackers and City’s new signings points toward markets like both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, and attacking player goal props being attractive options.
Oliver Glasner confirms Crystal Palace exit
Oliver Glasner has confirmed he will leave Crystal Palace at the end of the season when his contract expires. He revealed discussions with the club’s leadership and said he informed the squad to provide clarity. Glasner cited his desire for a new challenge and pledged to give his best to help Palace achieve their best points tally in the club’s history.
Why Glasner’s decision matters
Glasner’s impending departure opens managerial speculation across the Premier League and could indirectly influence transfer planning for Palace and clubs linked to him. Any successor will inherit a squad shaped by Glasner’s FA Cup success and may adjust recruitment priorities in the summer.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek offered to Manchester United
AC Milan have made Ruben Loftus-Cheek available in January, with United among several clubs reportedly shown the midfielder. Milan are said to be open to a loan with an obligation to buy in the summer. Loftus-Cheek offers Premier League-proven physicality and an eye for goal, with 30 career goals and 32 assists across 367 appearances.
Potential fit and transfer window outlook
If United pursue Loftus-Cheek, he could provide midfield solidity and late runs into the box—traits that suit Carrick’s interim role and a team needing composure in midfield. The January window remains crucial for United to add depth, while attention also turns to appointing a long-term manager in the summer.
What fans and punters should watch this week
Watch starting lineups, late fitness updates, and how new signings are integrated. The return of Amad and Mbeumo, City’s Semenyo form, and any last-minute loan moves like Loftus-Cheek will shape both matchday outcomes and short-term betting markets.
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