Manchester United welcome Chelsea at Old Trafford in the Premier League as they hope to bounce back from their humiliating defeat at the hand of Arsenal. However, it’s not sure the Red Devils will be high on motivation. Interim manager Ralf Rangnick conceded a top-four finish after the loss at Emirates. But they still have a lot to do if they are to finish at least in other European spots. Meanwhile, Chelsea are back to winning ways with a hard-fought victory over West Ham. The Blues are now looking to seal the third place.
Manchester United’s season has gone from bad to worse. Erik ten Haag has been announced as the next man, but this season, the damage has already been done. However, their prime target will now be qualifying for the Europa. Competition is high as well for Europa League spots. But a win against Chelsea will sure be a morale booster for the dejected United players. Moreover, Manchester United will be looking to end their 2-game losing streak too against Chelsea.
Manchester United Premier League Form: D L W L L
Chelsea are enduring a torrid period after the government sanctions. As a result, the Blues were unable to extend their star defender Antonio Rudiger. Manager Thomas Tuchel recently confirmed that Rudiger will leave at the end of the season. But there’s still a lot to play for Chelsea in the league. Securing a third-place finish surely tops their agenda as just 5 points separate them and fourth-placed Arsenal. Tuchel will hope that his boys take the advantage of United’s poor form.
Chelsea Premier League Form: W L W L W
Manchester United vs Chelsea: Team News
The Red Devils’ team news
Paul Pogba‘s season has ended after sustaining a calf injury. Edinson Cavani is out as well for the season. Luke Shaw’s minor knee surgery means he will miss this game too, but is expected to return before the season ends. Fred is also unavailable as he is working his way to match fitness following a hip problem.
Harry Maguire was on the bench against Arsenal but should return to starting line-up. Jadon Sancho is expected to keep his place as well after a decent performance in the last game. Same for Nemanja Matic who grabbed an assist in the Emirates drubbing.
Manchester United’s possible starting lineup:
De Gea; Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Telles; McTominay, Matic; Elanga, Fernandes, Sancho; Ronaldo
The Blues’ team news
In a massive boost, Tuchel could have Rudiger and Reece James back for this game after missing out against West Ham. However, Mateo Kovacic, Ben Chilwell, and Callum Hudson-Odoi are all out for Chelsea.
Christian Pulisic scored a late winner in the last game, and Havertz’s poor display could pave the for the American to start at Old Trafford. Timo Werner should keep his place in the starting eleven. Azpilicueta could be dropped for Reece James’ return.
Chelsea possible starting line-up:
Mendy; James, Silva, Rudiger; Loftus-Cheek, Kante, Jorginho, Alonso; Pulisic, Mount, Werner
Our Prediction
Manchester United 2-3 Chelsea
United have picked up just one win in their last five league games. Moreover, they have conceded 11 goals in those five games. However, there won’t be a miracle as such for Manchester United against Chelsea. Furthermore, United’s primary source of goals and assists, Bruno Fernandes has zero to show in his last 7 league games. Chelsea have multiple options in their squad to churn out a win here.
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