Manchester United is set to host Newcastle United in a highly anticipated Premier League clash on Boxing Day. This festive fixture, kicking off at 8:00 PM GMT on Friday, December 26, 2025, promises high drama at Old Trafford. Both clubs are desperate to find form and climb the table; this is a crucial match. Newcastle, however, enters the Theatre of Dreams with a strong recent record against the Red Devils, adding an extra layer of tension to the evening.

Match Details: When and Where to Watch

Football fans in the UK can catch all the action live. The match will be televised on Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage beginning at 7:00 PM GMT. In addition, Sky Sports Main Event will start its broadcast at 7:30 PM GMT. For those on the move, Sky Sports subscribers can also stream the entire game live using the Sky Go app.

Form Guide and Head-to-Head

Both teams come into this match looking to turn their fortunes around. Manchester United, currently seventh in the league, recently suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa and played out a thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth. Similarly, Newcastle sits in eleventh place after letting a two-goal lead slip against Chelsea and losing the Tyne-Wear derby to Sunderland.

A Rivalry of Two Halves

Historically, Manchester United has dominated this fixture, winning 35 of the 60 matches since 1995. Newcastle has secured 12 wins, with 13 games ending in a draw. However, recent history tells a very different story. The Magpies have won five of their last six encounters with the Reds. This includes a memorable 2-0 victory at Old Trafford in December 2024. Therefore, while history favors United, the current form gives Newcastle a clear psychological edge.

Team News: Injuries and Absences Pile Up

Both managers are grappling with significant selection headaches due to injuries and international duty, which will certainly impact the game.

Manchester United’s Woes

The Red Devils face a challenging period with several key players unavailable. The team will be without:

• Bruno Fernandes: The club captain is out with a hamstring injury.
• Kobbie Mainoo: The promising midfielder is also sidelined.
• Harry Maguire & Matthijs de Ligt: Both central defenders are injured.
• Noussair Mazraoui, Amad, and Bryan Mbeumo: The trio is away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.

On a positive note, midfielder Casemiro is set to return after serving a one-game suspension.

Newcastle’s Defensive Crisis

Newcastle is facing an even more severe injury crisis, particularly in defence. Their list of absentees is extensive and includes:

• Dan Burn
• Kieran Trippier
• Emil Krafth
• Jamaal Lascelles
• Valentino Livramento

Sven Botman is nearing a return, which would be a major boost for the Magpies. Meanwhile, Lewis Miley and Joelinton are being assessed ahead of the match.  Goalkeeper Nick Pope is also expected to be available, adding competition for the starting spot.

A Pivotal Festive Clash

In conclusion, the Boxing Day encounter between Manchester United and Newcastle United is shaping up to be a defining moment for both clubs. With both teams suffering from inconsistent form and significant injury problems, the match presents a vital opportunity to build momentum. Manchester United will be desperate to end their poor run against the Magpies at home. Conversely, Newcastle will see this as a perfect chance to exploit United’s vulnerabilities and continue their recent dominance. Expect a tense, hard-fought battle under the Old Trafford lights.