As the only Premier League clash on Boxing Day, this wasn’t really a great watch for a neutral, and especially for Manchester United fans who will have no doubt spent a lot of this game covering their eyes, as despite getting ahead in the game, they had to grind out a defensive showing with what could easily have been confused for an U21 side. Despite this lacklustre showing, they ground out the 3 points, which to give them credit, is something they’ve struggled to do under Ruben Amorim.

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Teams

Manchester United: Lammens, Shaw (Fredricson 88′), Martinez (Malacia 88′), Heaven, Dalot, Ugarte, Casemiro (Yoro 61′), Cunha, Mount (Fletcher 46′), Dorgu, Sesko (Zirkzee 60′)

Subs: Bayindir, Fletcher, Mantato, Lacey

Newcastle United: Ramsdale, Hall, Schar, Thiaw, Miley, Ramsey (Joelinton 68′), Tonali (Willock 77′), Guimaraes, Gordon, Woltemade (Wissa 68′), Murphy (Barnes 68′)

Subs: Pope, Murphy, Shahar, Alabi, Neave

Manchester United 1-0 Newcastle United

Manchester United made Boxing Day a happy one at Old Trafford with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Newcastle United, edging a tight and tense Premier League contest. In front of a packed, festive crowd, the hosts started brightly, moving the ball with purpose and pressing high, while Newcastle looked dangerous on the break and well-drilled in their defensive shape. Chances were at a premium in the opening half, but the atmosphere crackled as both sides traded spells of control without finding a breakthrough.

The decisive moment arrived after the interval when United finally found a way through. A patient spell of possession eventually paid off, with a slick move opening up the Newcastle back line and a composed finish sending Old Trafford into celebration. Newcastle responded positively, pushing higher up the pitch and committing bodies forward, but United’s defence stood firm, repelling a series of crosses and long-range efforts as the game opened up.

As the minutes ticked away, the match became scrappy and intense, with tackles flying in and the crowd urging United over the line. Newcastle came close late on, but a crucial block and some calm goalkeeping preserved the clean sheet. The final whistle was met with relief and applause from the home supporters, as United wrapped up Boxing Day with three valuable points, while Newcastle were left to rue a disciplined performance that ultimately went unrewarded.

Talking Points

First and foremost, this was a hard-fought and much-needed win for Manchester United. It wasn’t pretty and it certainly wasn’t free-flowing, but in the context of the season, three points were the priority and United delivered. Newcastle made life uncomfortable throughout, pressing aggressively and limiting space, which meant United had to dig deep, defend resolutely, and show a bit of grit that has sometimes been missing. On a congested festive schedule, results often matter more than performances, and this narrow victory could prove important in keeping momentum ticking along.

Injuries, however, continue to loom large over United’s campaign and were once again a major talking point. The squad looked stretched, with limited options from the bench and players clearly managing minutes rather than playing at full intensity. The lack of depth showed at times, particularly when the game needed fresh legs or a change of tempo. While the patched-up side deserves credit for grinding out a clean sheet, the ongoing injury issues are clearly impacting rhythm, cohesion, and the ability to dominate games for sustained periods.

That said, there was a sense of mild underwhelm around Old Trafford given United’s recent uptick in performances. After showing signs of sharper attacking play and greater control in previous outings, this display felt like a step back in terms of fluency and confidence on the ball. Passes went astray, build-up play was often slow, and clear chances were scarce. It wasn’t a performance to ignite excitement, but it was a reminder that progress isn’t always linear — and sometimes, especially in December, winning ugly is part of the job.