Man Utd v Chelsea – Preview, Predictions And Best Bets

Manchester United face Chelsea The Red Devils will have caretaker manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy on the sidelines as they aim to extend an 11-match unbeaten run at Old Trafford against the Blues in league play.

Man Utd Form

United recently parted ways with coach Erik Ten Hag following a run of one win in eight matches, which included a 3-0 home loss to Liverpool and a 3-0 defeat by Tottenham (with 4.59 xG allowed). They needed a late goal to secure a 3-3 draw away at FC Porto, followed by a defensive 0-0 draw at Aston Villa to scrape a point.

An improved display saw them win 2-1 at home against Brentford, before a 1-1 draw away to Fenerbahce left United with three points from three Europa League group-stage matches. A late 2-1 loss at West Ham sealed Ten Hag’s fate. United restored some confidence midweek with a 5-2 victory over a second-string Leicester side in the Carabao Cup.

Man Utd Team News

Man Utd are without Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, and Leny Yoro due to injuries. Antony and Mason Mount are doubtful, and the return date for Luke Shaw remains uncertain.

Van Nistelrooy may opt to keep Lisandro Martinez at left-back and select between Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof in central defense. Manuel Ugarte and Christian Eriksen are competing for a midfield spot, while Josh Zirkzee could be preferred upfront over Rasmus Hojlund.

Man Utd Motivation

United showed extra energy midweek and will aim to capitalize on the “new manager bounce” in this match.

Without Ten Hag, they may adopt a more aggressive, attacking style. Expect them to play for a win to rejuvenate their season.

Chelsea Form

Chelsea have been in good form recently, with the midweek cup loss at Newcastle marking only their second defeat in 11 games. They generated 4.16 xG in a 4-2 home win over Brighton, although a 1-1 home draw with Nottingham Forest was disappointing. In a 2-1 loss at Liverpool, they controlled possession but lacked a cutting edge.

A 4-1 away win against Panathinaikos was followed by a 2-1 home victory over Newcastle in the league last weekend, with Chelsea recording 17 shots. On Wednesday, they exited the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle, despite creating 1.97 xG from 17 shots.

Chelsea Team News

Maresca rotated heavily in midweek, and most of those rested will return for this match. Jadon Sancho cannot play against his parent club, and Reece James will undergo checks to determine his availability. If fit, he may start at left-back, as he did last weekend.

Enzo Fernandez could be benched again in favor of Romeo Lavia, while Pedro Neto is expected to keep his spot on the left wing. Cole Palmer, who did not play midweek, is fresh and ready to start.

Chelsea Motivation

Chelsea’s squad rotation in midweek suggests they are fully focused on this match. They’ll be eager to secure a win at Old Trafford for the first time in 12 visits.

The Blues will need renewed energy and intensity, especially in light of Ten Hag’s departure.

Key Stats

Man Utd have failed to score in 4 of their last 10 matches (all competitions).

Man Utd have won just 2 of their last 9 matches (DDLDDWDLW).

Man Utd are unbeaten in their last 11 home EPL matches vs Chelsea.

Chelsea have scored 25 goals in their last 11 matches (all competitions).

Chelsea have won 5 of their last 6 away league matches.

Chelsea’s Cole Palmer has scored 7 EPL goals this season.

Verdict

With the recent managerial change, United could show renewed vigor and possibly earn a positive result. A home win offers the best value here.