Manchester United hosts Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford in England for a Premier League showdown on May 17, 2026, with kickoff set for 7:30 AM EST.
With both clubs having little to play for beyond pride, the focus shifts to individual performances and tactical setups.
Let’s get into my Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United prediction.
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Prediction
- Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Prediction: Both Teams To Score – Yes (-152 at bet365)
My Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United best bet is for both teams to find the back of the net.
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Odds
| Nottingham Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
2.5 -163o / 130u | +425 | |
| Man U Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
2.5 -163o / 130u | -167 | |
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Picks
Here are my top picks for the Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest matchup:
- Both Teams To Score – Yes (-152 at bet365)
- Bruno Fernandes Anytime Assist (+162 at bet365)
Manchester United's attack has been potent under Michael Carrick, especially at Old Trafford. The team has scored in all eight home matches since he took charge, averaging 2.25 goals per game. More tellingly, both teams have scored in the last five contests at their home stadium. This trend aligns with recent history, as the last two meetings at Old Trafford finished 3-2, and the reverse fixture this season was a 2-2 draw.
Nottingham Forest arrives in excellent form. Under new manager Vitor Pereira, the team is unbeaten in eight league matches and has become a formidable offensive unit, averaging two goals per game. Their attacking prowess suggests they can challenge a United defense that has sometimes looked vulnerable. Given that both teams have found their scoring rhythm, the Both Teams to Score market holds significant appeal.
The second pick focuses on Bruno Fernandes. With Manchester United's Champions League spot secured, individual accolades come into focus. Fernandes is just one assist short of tying the Premier League single-season record of 20. He has created an impressive 124 chances for his teammates this season, 56 more than the next closest player. In a match with less pressure, expect him to be the primary creator, actively seeking the pass that could put him in the record books.
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Projections
Projected Chance of Winning
| Manchester United | Draw | Nottingham Forest |
|---|---|---|
| 58.1% | 22.7% | 19.2% |
Projected Total Goals
| Manchester United | Match Total | Nottingham Forest |
|---|---|---|
| 1.79 | 2.69 | 0.90 |
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United Betting Analysis
With both clubs safe in their respective league positions, this match lacks the high-stakes pressure typical of a season finale. This environment often leads to more open, attacking soccer. Manchester United's approach under Michael Carrick has been offensively focused, particularly at home, where they average 16.5 shots per game. They face a Nottingham Forest side that concedes an average of 16.8 shots in away fixtures, suggesting United will have plenty of opportunities to score.
However, Forest should not be underestimated. They have been a threat in transition and have scored 13 goals across their last four league matches on the road. The head-to-head record also favors the visitors recently. Forest is undefeated in their last three matches against United, winning two and drawing one. The last encounter was a 2-2 draw, and three of the last five meetings have seen goals from both sides, reinforcing the potential for another high-scoring affair.
Check out the best soccer odds before making your Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United picks.
