This Sunday, May 25, 2025, Manchester United host Aston Villa at Old Trafford at 17:00 local time, in the final matchday of the Premier League. While the Red Devils aim to salvage some pride at the end of a dismal season, the Villans have everything to play for as they chase a Champions League spot.

A season to forget for United

United come into this match fresh off a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League Final in Bilbao. With 18 losses, just 39 points, and a -12 goal difference, this has been one of the worst campaigns in the club’s recent history. Manager Rúben Amorim is under pressure, and the fans are desperate for any sign of hope heading into the summer.

Adding to the uncertainty, Alejandro Garnacho has been left out of the matchday squad, amid increasing speculation about his future at the club.

In stark contrast, Aston Villa have enjoyed an excellent run of form, winning seven of their last eight league matches, including a 2-0 victory over Tottenham. Currently sixth with 66 points, Villa need a win and for Chelsea, Newcastle, or Manchester City to drop points in order to secure a top-four finish.

Unai Emery’s men are motivated and hungry, with Ollie Watkins, Marco Asensio, and John McGinn playing pivotal roles in the final stretch.

Probable Lineups

Manchester United (3-4-2-1):
Altay Bayindir; Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, Ayden Heaven; Noussair Mazraoui, Casemiro, Patrick Dorgu, Amad Diallo; Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount; Rasmus Højlund.

Aston Villa (4-2-3-1):
Emiliano Martínez; Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Ian Maatsen; Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana; Morgan Rogers, Marco Asensio, John McGinn; Ollie Watkins.

What’s at stake?

For United, it’s about ending the season with dignity. Manager Rúben Amorim has asked for focus on the pitch, downplaying questions about potential summer exits for Bruno Fernandes and Garnacho.

For Villa, this could be a historic night. With a win and favorable results elsewhere, they could clinch a Champions League berth, a massive achievement under Unai Emery.

The final whistle will not only end the Premier League season — it may also close the chapter on several high-profile futures. Expect emotion, intensity, and drama in Manchester.