Manchester United vs Chelsea Prediction & Match Preview
Chelsea continued their trend of high-scoring encounters on Sunday, securing a 3-2 victory against Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
In the last four Premier League matches for Chelsea, there have been a minimum of five goals in each game, including a thrilling 4-4 draw against Manchester City less than a month ago.
Despite facing adversity with influential midfielder Conor Gallagher being sent off before halftime, the Blues exhibited tremendous resilience in their triumph over Brighton three days ago. Enzo Fernandez delivered a standout performance, achieving a brace in the Chelsea shirt.
Looking ahead to Wednesday evening, Mauricio Pochettino’s team is optimistic about extending their success as they head to Old Trafford to face Manchester United in Gameweek No 15.
In contrast, Manchester United has been struggling to find their top form recently, evidenced by a lackluster performance resulting in a 0-1 defeat to Newcastle at St. James’ Park on Saturday evening.
Erik ten Hag’s side narrowly escaped a more significant loss, as they failed to create meaningful opportunities in the final third apart from an early chance by Alejandro Garnacho.
Despite their recent challenges, Manchester United surprisingly holds onto a top-seven position in the Premier League standings. Notably, they are the only team in the division without a single draw so far this season.
Team News:
Former Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount may have anticipated a cool reception from the traveling fans, but it remains uncertain whether the Englishman will participate against his former team. Mount has only recently returned to training after dealing with a calf problem.
Among the Manchester United players on the road to recovery, Mount is the sole contender with a chance of being fit for Wednesday’s game. Unfortunately, Tyrell Malacia (knee), Lisandro Martinez (foot), Casemiro (thigh), Christian Eriksen (knee), Amad Diallo (knee), Jonny Evans (thigh), and Jadon Sancho are all ruled out. Sancho remains in exile.
Following Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford’s inclusion at St James’ Park, Ten Hag is contemplating bringing Rasmus Hojlund and Antony back into the lineup against Chelsea. Rashford, in particular, faced criticism for a perceived lack of effort and desire during Saturday’s disappointing loss.
While Reece James and Marc Cucurella have completed their Premier League bans and are available for selection, Chelsea will be without Conor Gallagher due to his sending off against Brighton. This absence opens up a spot for Cole Palmer to return to the starting XI.
Reece James is expected to feature on the right, but Colwill’s goal over the weekend may influence Pochettino’s decision. Pochettino could opt for fresh legs, potentially shifting Axel Disasi into a central role instead of the 39-year-old Thiago Silva.
Malo Gusto (tendon), Christopher Nkunku (knee), and Romeo Lavia (ankle) are uncertain for the upcoming contest, while Wesley Fofana (knee), Carney Chukwuemeka (knee), Trevoh Chalobah (thigh), and Ben Chilwell (thigh) remain sidelined in the treatment room.
