Man United vs Crystal Palace: Premier League Preview, Prediction and Team News
The Premier League calendar does not pause for sentiment. It rolls on, relentless and revealing. For Man United, Sunday’s visit of Crystal Palace to Old Trafford arrives with momentum building and expectations rising.
Benjamin Sesko’s decisive strike on Merseyside secured a 1-0 win and stretched Man United’s unbeaten Premier League run to ten matches. It was a result carved out with patience and control, qualities that have become more evident in recent weeks. Six of those games have come under Michael Carrick, who has collected 16 points from a possible 18 since stepping into the dugout until the end of the season.
Old Trafford senses opportunity. Palace arrive organised and competitive, yet this feels like a junction in the campaign where United can further underline their top four credentials.
Kick Off Time, TV Channel and Live Stream Details
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace kicks off at 2pm GMT on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The venue is Old Trafford, a ground that tends to amplify both anxiety and ambition in equal measure.
Supporters in the UK can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage beginning at 12.30pm GMT. Sky Sports Main Event joins at 2pm following the Old Firm Derby. Subscribers can stream the game via the Sky Go app, ensuring full access to another pivotal Premier League afternoon.
Photo: IMAGO
Team News and Selection Dilemmas
Carrick’s biggest call centres on Sesko. The striker has three goals in his last four appearances and changed the game from the bench against Everton. Rewarding that impact with a start would be logical.
Bryan Mbeumo, who hobbled off late at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, faces a race to be fit. If the Cameroon international is cleared, the adjustment may come elsewhere in the attacking line, with Amad Diallo potentially vulnerable as Carrick weighs form against balance.
Crystal Palace travel north without fresh injury concerns following their Conference League outing on Thursday. Maxence Lacroix marked his return with a goal and Oliver Glasner will assess whether the defender can handle two matches in three days. Jean Philippe Mateta remains sidelined with a knee issue, while Jefferson Lerma and Eddie Nketiah continue their recovery from hamstring problems. Cheick Doucoure is out long term.
Squad depth and energy levels could shape this contest as much as tactics.
Prediction and Head to Head Record
Context matters in the Premier League. With a trip to St James’ Park looming and rivals Chelsea facing Arsenal, this is an afternoon where Man United can apply pressure and create breathing space.
United have not been distracted by European or domestic cup commitments and should be the fresher side. Palace are disciplined and capable of frustrating opponents, yet the rhythm and confidence currently surrounding Carrick’s team suggest control rather than chaos.
Score prediction: Man United 2-0 Crystal Palace