Manchester United need win vs. Crystal Palace

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: David De Gea of Manchester United celebrates during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea at Old Trafford on February 25, 2018 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: David De Gea of Manchester United celebrates during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea at Old Trafford on February 25, 2018 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

Manchester United are in great position to earn a place in next year’s Champions League. However, Liverpool have overtaken Manchester United’s second place position.

For Jose Mourinho, every game is a must win. The Portuguese manager receives criticism everyday for how he should run the club. Thus, the Premier League matchup with Crystal Palace is crucial to Manchester United’s spot in the Champions League.

Liverpool played Newcastle United and won 2-0. Furthermore, Liverpool’s win puts them above Manchester United in the table. Obviously, Manchester United need to keep a top four position to qualify for European competition. On the other hand, a second place finish would be Manchester United’s best finish since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Crystal Palace sits in the relegation zone, so many believe Manchester United can come out with the win. Manchester United are the much better team, and Crystal Palace only have six wins this season. All the stars point to a Red Devils’ win in tomorrow’s Premier League matchup.

Key players in tomorrow’s matchup

For Manchester United, there are several players to keep an eye out for. As of now, neither of the team’s lineups are public, but there are a few players one could assume would play. First, Alexis Sanchez will be a player to keep an eye on. He is off to a slow start with Manchester United, and this match may allow Sanchez to find form and contribute to the team.

Additionally, Romelu Lukaku is in great form right now. He played a role in both of United’s goals against Chelsea. With Crystal Palace being a weak team, people can expect Lukaku to find his way onto the scoresheet.

Last but not least, David de Gea is a big player in any formation. He is currently the world’s best goalkeeper, and if he plays the same way he did against Sevilla, he will keep a clean sheet.

For Crystal Palace, there are not many names to keep an eye on, but Wilfried Zaha is one that could pose a threat against Manchester United. The midfielder is fast and technical, and he has a few tricks up his sleeve. For the most part, United’s defense should do well to close him out.

Next: Manchester United: Jesse Lingard deserves start vs. Crystal Palace

Manchester United are clear favorites in tomorrow’s matchup. Mourinho has much better players, as well as much more money. With the resources that United have, Crystal Palace should not be a difficult opponent. However, Mourinho can not look over this opponent, as anything can happen in a match.