FA Cup: Wigan vs Manchester United match preview, predictions, possible Line up, time and where to watch

The Manchester United match-winner against Aston Villa, Rasmus Hojlund. (Photo Credit: Premier League.)

FA Cup: Wigan vs Manchester United match preview, predictions, possible Line up, time and where to watch

Ayoola Kelechi 14:23 - 08.01.2024

Manchester United will be looking to overcome a recent slump in form when they take on Wigan in the FA Cup

The upcoming FA Cup match between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United promises to be an interesting encounter. The game is scheduled for January 8, 2024, at 8:15 pm GMT, and will be held at the DW Stadium in Wigan.

Wigan vs Manchester United recent form and team news

Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, are looking to recover from a challenging December where they lost five of their eight games across all competitions.

They ended 2023 with a loss against Nottingham Forest, highlighting a need for a strong start in 2024. The team has been dealing with several injuries, including long-term absentees such as Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Tyrell Malacia, and Mason Mount. Victor Lindelof and Anthony Martial have also been absent recently, but some players are expected to return for this match.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro| Imago
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro| Imago

Wigan Athletic, managed by Shaun Maloney, are currently 17th in League One and have had a mixed bag of results recently.

Wigan manager Shaun Maloney | Imago
Wigan manager Shaun Maloney | Imago

Prior to their point against Barnsley, they beat Carlisle United but have generally been struggling in the league. They will be without Tom Pearce and Jason Kerr, and there are doubts over Stephen Humphrys and Scott Smith.

Wigan vs Manchester United head-to-head record

Historically, Manchester United have dominated this fixture, winning 18 of the 19 competitive games played against Wigan since the latter was promoted to the Premier League in 2005. 

Marrouane Fellaine celebrates a goal the last time WIgan played against Manchester United | Imago
Marrouane Fellaine celebrates a goal the last time WIgan played against Manchester United | Imago

Their most recent meeting in the FA Cup in 2017 ended in a 4-0 victory for Manchester United.

Wigan vs Manchester United predicted lineups:

Wigan Athletic (4-2-3-1): Tickle; Clare, Hughes, Morrison, Sessegnon; Shaw, Adeeko; Godo, Lang, Jones; Magennis. Wigan Athletic, managed by Shaun Maloney, are currently outside the relegation zone in League One and will aim to replicate their 2012/13 FA Cup success. Key players like Tom Pearce and Jason Kerr are unavailable for the clash, adding to the challenge for Wigan.

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Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Evans, Dalot; McTominay, Mainoo; Diallo, Mejbri, Garnacho; Hojlund. Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing end to 2023 and aim for a better outcome in the FA Cup. 

With several key players like Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez nearing a return to action, there's an anticipation of stronger performances. Andre Onana has delayed his participation with the Cameroon squad to play in this match as well.

Wigan vs Manchester United playing styles and tactics

Manchester United are known for their tactical flexibility under Ten Hag, often playing a high-pressing game with a focus on ball possession.

Erik Ten Hag wins manager of the month.
Erik Ten Hag. (Photo Credit: BR Football/X)

Wigan, on the other hand, might adopt a more defensive approach, looking to exploit opportunities on the counter.

Wigan vs Manchester United betting tips and predictions

The odds heavily favour a Manchester United win, but Wigan's history of upsetting Premier League teams in the FA Cup adds an element of unpredictability.

A Boxing Day masterclass from Manchester United youngsters - Rasmus Hojlund and Garnacho. (Photo Credit: ManUtd/X)
A Boxing Day masterclass from Manchester United youngsters - Rasmus Hojlund and Garnacho. (Photo Credit: ManUtd/X)

Predictions suggest a close game, possibly with Manchester United edging it by a narrow margin.

Where and how to watch Wigan vs Manchester United

The match will be televised live on cable TV in Nigeria, with coverage beginning at 9:15 pm WAT. It can also be streamed live online.

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