Manchester United, last season's FA Cup runners-up, are seeking revenge against Nottingham Forest, who defeated them 2-1 in December. Nottingham Forest, coming off a 4-2 loss to Aston Villa, are also looking to recover from their recent Premier League setback.
Despite Forest's attempt at a comeback against Aston Villa with goals from Moussa Niakhate and Morgan Gibbs-White, they ultimately fell short, marking their 14th league defeat of the season. They now find themselves in a precarious position just above the relegation zone.
Forest must focus on their FA Cup tie with Manchester United before facing league leaders Liverpool. Despite being considered underdogs, Forest have a history of success against United in the FA Cup and will be boosted by their recent victory over them in the Premier League.
Manchester United, buoyed by a recent winning streak, suffered a setback with a 2-1 loss to Fulham. Despite Harry Maguire's late equalizer, Fulham secured a dramatic win in the dying moments of the game. United's hopes for a top-four finish took a hit, and their focus now shifts to the FA Cup as their best chance for silverware this season.
Having won 12 FA Cup titles but not since 2016, Manchester United are eager to progress further in the competition. A win against Nottingham Forest would see them advance to the quarter-finals for a record 48th time, providing a glimmer of hope for a successful season.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Nottingham Forest is facing injury concerns with Ibrahim Sangare, Willy Boly, and Ola Aina, all sustaining injuries during the Africa Cup of Nations. Their return dates are uncertain, along with Chris Wood, who remains sidelined with a hamstring issue.Adding to their woes, Nuno Tavares picked up an injury against West Ham, sidelining him for the Aston Villa match. Moussa Niakhate filled in at left-back last time and might continue in that role, with Harry Toffolo as another option.
Divock Origi is vying for a starting spot upfront, possibly replacing Taiwo Awoniyi, who only managed 45 minutes last weekend due to fitness concerns. Origi could be supported by Anthony Elanga, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Callum Hudson-Odoi in the attacking lineup.
Manchester United faces uncertainties with Casemiro's availability due to a head injury suffered in the Fulham game. Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen, or Sofyan Amrabat could step in if Casemiro isn't fit.
United will also be without Rasmus Hojlund, Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Anthony Martial, and Mason Mount due to various injuries.
Omari Forson, who made his senior debut against Fulham, hopes to retain his place on the right side of attack, competing with Antony. Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho are likely to complete United's front three.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Nottingham Forest possible starting lineup:Sels; Montiel, Felipe, Murillo, Niakhate; Danilo, Dominguez; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Origi
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Dalot, Varane, Evans, Lindelof; McTominay, Mainoo; Forson, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford
EXPERT PREDICTION
Nottingham Forest 2-3 Manchester United
Expect a closely contested match at the City Ground, especially since replays have been eliminated from this stage of the competition. If Manchester United can reignite their attacking prowess, they stand a good chance of advancing to the quarter-finals.
