Manchester Utd vs PAOK Thessaloniki prediction 7.11.2024

The Europa League action continues as Manchester United prepare to host PAOK Saloniki at Old Trafford on Thursday, November 7th, 2024. This League Stage fixture, set to kick off at 20:00 local time, marks the fourth match day of the competition. Both teams will be eager to improve their standings, with Manchester United currently sitting on 3 points and PAOK Saloniki with just 1 point to their name.

The Red Devils, under the guidance of interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, have had a mixed start to their Europa League campaign, drawing all three of their matches so far. PAOK, led by Răzvan Lucescu, have struggled to find their footing, with one draw and two losses in their opening fixtures. This encounter at the Theatre of Dreams could prove crucial for both sides as they look to kickstart their European ambitions.

With the referee yet to be announced, all eyes will be on how these two teams approach this pivotal match. Manchester United’s home advantage could play a significant role, but PAOK’s desperation for points might fuel an upset. The stage is set for an intriguing battle between two sides hungry for success in Europe’s second-tier competition.

Our betting tip for Manchester United vs PAOK Saloniki:

Given Manchester United’s superior quality and home advantage, our primary betting tip is a home win for the Red Devils. Dafabet offers the best odds for this outcome at 1.27. However, for those looking for higher potential returns, considering a handicap bet on Manchester United might be worthwhile, given their favorite status.

Our second betting prediction focuses on the “Both Teams to Score” market. Given the defensive frailties both teams have shown, we predict both teams will score. Paripesa offers best odds of 1.95 for this outcome. For more on this bookie, check our Paripesa review. If you want to compare odds for the aforementioned betting markets across bookies, these are the odds offered by some of the best betting sites available:

Manchester United – A Giant Seeking Consistency

Manchester United have had a tumultuous start to their Europa League campaign, drawing all three of their matches so far. This unusual consistency in sharing points has left them with 3 points and sitting in 21st position in the overall Europa League standings. Their goal difference stands at an even 5:5, indicating a balance between their attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities.

In their most recent outing, the Red Devils managed a 1-1 home draw against Chelsea in domestic competition. This result mirrors their European form, showcasing their ability to compete against quality opposition but also highlighting their struggle to secure victories.

Under the interim management of Dutch legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manchester United are still adapting to a new tactical approach. Van Nistelrooy’s pedigree as a former prolific striker for the club brings high expectations, particularly in terms of offensive output. However, the team’s current goal tally suggests there’s still work to be done in fine-tuning their attacking mechanisms. Following a convincing Cup win in the first match after Erik ten Hag’s departure, the match against Chelsea revealed the same old problems, with Man United lacking pace and creativity in attack and transitional play. Rúben Amorim, who has already endeared himself to the Man United faithful with a 4-1 win over Man City in the Champions League on Tuesday night, has a lot of work waiting for him.

Nevertheless, the Red Devils’ recent form across all competitions shows signs of improvement, with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat in their last 5 matches. This uptick in performance could be crucial as they look to secure their first Europa League win of the season against PAOK Saloniki.

PAOK Saloniki – Greek Underdogs Seeking Redemption

PAOK Saloniki find themselves in a challenging position as they travel to Old Trafford. With just 1 point from their first three Europa League matches, the Greek side sits in 30th place in the overall standings. Their record of no wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats, coupled with a goal difference of 3:6, underlines the uphill battle they face in this competition.

However, PAOK’s recent form across all competitions offers a glimmer of hope. Like their opponents, they have secured 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat in their last 5 matches. Their most recent result, a 2-1 away victory against Lamia in domestic competition, could provide a much-needed confidence boost as they prepare to face Manchester United.

Under the stewardship of Răzvan Lucescu, PAOK have shown flashes of potential. The Romanian manager, known for his tactical flexibility, will need to devise a masterplan to overcome the odds at Old Trafford. Lucescu’s approach typically balances defensive solidity with quick counter-attacks, a strategy that could prove effective against a Manchester United side that has shown inconsistency this season.

Recent Form

Both Manchester United and PAOK Saloniki have identical records in their last 5 matches across all competitions: 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat. This similarity in recent form suggests that the upcoming match could be more closely contested than the odds might suggest.

Latest Results

Manchester United’s most recent result was a 1-1 home draw against Chelsea, while PAOK Saloniki secured a 2-1 away victory against Lamia. These results indicate that both teams are capable of performing well against quality opposition, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter at Old Trafford.

Best Odds and Match Predictions

The bookmakers strongly favor a Manchester United victory, with Dafabet offering the best odds at 1.27 for a home win. For those considering an upset, 1Win provides odds of 12.50 for a PAOK Saloniki victory and 6.92 for a draw.

In the “Both Teams to Score” market, Paripesa offers odds of 1.95 for “Yes,” while Bet9ja provides 1.94 for “No.”

Based on our experience working with various bookmakers and analyzing team performances, we predict a Manchester United win with both teams scoring. The Red Devils’ superior quality should see them through, but their defensive inconsistencies could allow PAOK to find the net.

Conclusion

This Europa League clash between Manchester United and PAOK Saloniki promises to be an engaging affair. While Manchester United’s home advantage and overall squad quality make them clear favorites, PAOK’s recent form suggests they shouldn’t be underestimated.

The Red Devils’ need to secure their first Europa League win of the season, combined with PAOK’s desperation to climb off the bottom of the table, should result in an open and attacking game. Van Nistelrooy’s men will likely dominate possession and create numerous chances, but their defensive vulnerabilities could provide opportunities for the Greek side.

Ultimately, Manchester United’s superior firepower should see them through, but don’t be surprised if PAOK manage to get on the scoresheet in what could be an entertaining European night at Old Trafford.