Newcastle United could have a major decision to make in goal for their Boxing Day trip to Manchester United.
Boxing Day brings another huge game for Newcastle United, who desperately need to turn a corner after a frustratingly inconsistent first half to their Premier League campaign.
Indeed, Manchester United versus Newcastle United is always one that Toon fans look out for and another insipid away performance would be a miserable way to celebrate Christmas.
What is your best memory of Newcastle playing at Old Trafford? 🏟️
The 3-0 win in the cup was so special! The night Hall and Tino truly announced themselves to the Toon Army!
Newcastle have a good record at Old Trafford in recent seasons and Eddie Howe could certainly do with a statement performance there.
Having said all of that, here’s a look at the latest confirmed Newcastle United team news.
Newcastle United confirmed team news vs Manchester United
Nick Pope could play for Newcastle against Manchester United after making progress on his return from a groin injury.
The goalkeeper – who was in poor form prior to his injury – hasn’t played since making a big mistake against Marseille in November.
Still, Howe is a huge fan of Pope and understudy Aaron Ramsdale has not fully convinced.
Prior to the game, Howe said: “There is a chance.
“He hasn’t trained yet. We hope he might train today [Tuesday]. Let’s see how he does.”
Newcastle United injury list vs Manchester United
The injury issues at Newcastle remain extensive.
Can we make it back-to-back wins at Old Trafford? Give us your predictions!
We've not been great away, but I reckon we could get a belated Christmas present 🎁
All of Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Tino Livramento, William Osula, Dan Burn and Emil Krafth are expected to miss the game.
That does not give Howe many options defensively, particularly at centre-back.
Newcastle United predicted XI vs Manchester United
Aside from Pope for Ramsdale, Howe may stick with the same team who drew 2-2 with Chelsea before Christmas.
For the first time in what feels like an age, the Newcastle United squad have been able to rest, given they haven’t played in six days.
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Manchester UnitedManchester United
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Newcastle United predicted XI: Pope; Miley, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Ramsey; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon
Injured: Trippier, Livramento, Botman, Osula, Burn, Krafth
Time and date: 8pm GMT on Friday, 26 December, 2025
Venue: Old Trafford
TV channel and live stream: Sky Sports, Sky Go
Referee: Anthony Taylor
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