Chelsea approach the Manchester United game all well aware it is going to be a difficult one. Old Trafford has not surrendered to Chelsea in the Premier League since May 2013. Though Chelsea have never lost once yet in the league, it is a big ask to manage victory. United are lacking at their best but can cause damage at home.
Key injuries weaken Chelsea’s options
Chelsea are without several key players when they travel: Levi Colwill remains sidelined with ACL damage, Liam Delap is out, Romeo Lavia won’t play, and Dario Essugo is also injured. These absences limit Maresca’s choices in defence, midfield and attack. Still, Joao Pedro is expected to lead the line, with Cole Palmer maybe back to the No.10 role.
Manchester United under pressure, but with home advantage
Manchester United have had a rough start to the season. Their form has shaken some confidence. Fans and pundits are talking about how many more games manager Ruben Amorim has to turn things around. But at home, United often lift their game. The crowd, the familiar pitch—it all helps. Chelsea must be ready for fight.
Manchester United vs Chelsea : Odds, predictions
Bookmakers see this as tight. Chelsea are slim favourites, but odds show how close things might be. Some predictions lean toward a draw. The history between the sides supports that: lots of drawn games at Old Trafford. If Chelsea defend well, avoid errors, use speed up front, they may get something. But United will want to prove they can still win big matches.
Author’s Insight
The Blues can approach this game like it’s a final. They have less stars to choose from, yet there are tools: decent attack, solidity through coaching, desire for points. They neutralize United pressure, hold tight at the back, and strike quickly and they can yet shatter their Old Trafford hoodoo or at least earn a point. For United, it would relieve pressure upon Amorim. For Chelsea, a draw can seem like a victory itself. My guess is Chelsea will come out aggressive but prudent—and maybe depart Old Trafford with a point.
