Premier League clubs know that a top-four place will guarantee entry into Europe's leading competition in 2026/27.
At present, United sit in third spot but only ahead of Villa on goal difference, following our 2-1 loss at Newcastle United last time out.
Chelsea and Liverpool are three points behind and the west Londoners currently have a superior goal difference to each of the rivals vying for these spots.
Brentford are four points worse off, in seventh, narrowly ahead of Everton.
While finishing in the top four must be the chief target, given the impressive form since Michael Carrick took over as head coach, there is also the possibility of fifth place being sufficient to also qualify for the Champions League.