EPL on Citi: Rampant Newcastle crush Manchester United to strengthen champions league push

Newcastle United dominated Manchester United with a 4-1 victory at St James’ Park on Sunday. This win marked the first league double over the Red Devils since the 1930-31 season. Manager Eddie Howe was absent due to illness and had been hospitalized on Friday. Assistants Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones took charge, leading to a strong performance from the team.

Manchester United's manager Ruben Amorim dropped goalkeeper Andre Onana after his recent errors. Stand-in Altay Bayındır faced difficulties of his own during the match. His blunder in the 77th minute allowed Joelinton to assist Bruno Guimarães for Newcastle’s fourth goal, sealing a tough night for United.

Newcastle started strong from the beginning. Alexander Isak sent a lofted ball to Sandro Tonali, who scored calmly. Tonali nearly doubled the lead with a long-range shot, but Bayındır saved Isak's attempt shortly before Manchester United's only highlight. Alejandro Garnacho scored in the 37th minute, marking United’s first Premier League goal in three games.

Despite this equalizer, Newcastle remained composed. Harvey Barnes quickly restored their lead early in the second half by finishing Jacob Murphy’s low cross. Barnes struck again an hour into the game after Noussair Mazraoui slipped, making it 3-1. Guimarães capped off the scoring following Bayındır’s mistake.

The situation worsened for Manchester United when striker Joshua Zirkzee limped off with a suspected hamstring injury. Amorim's team now sits 14th in the league table, just above Everton on goal difference and only three points clear of relegation after ten losses in 21 matches under him.

In contrast, Newcastle climbed to fourth place in the Premier League table. They are just one point behind third-placed Nottingham Forest and are strengthening their bid for Champions League football.