In a highly anticipated clash between two Premier League powerhouses, Chelsea and Manchester United prepare to square off at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night. Both teams are facing significant pressure as they aim to revive their European ambitions amid a challenging season.
The excitement surrounding this match is heightened by memories of their previous encounter, where Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford back in December.
Match Preview
Chelsea’s recent performance against Burnley epitomized their struggles throughout the season. Despite taking the lead twice, Mauricio Pochettino’s side stumbled, ultimately settling for a disappointing 2-2 draw. Pochettino voiced his disappointment, highlighting the team’s perceived lack of determination and focus in what he deemed a crucial fixture.
The team’s defensive weaknesses have been evident throughout the season, as evidenced by their failure to secure a clean sheet in their last 11 matches across all competitions. Despite a solid home record, Chelsea’s recent history against Manchester United is concerning, with no league victories in their last 12 encounters.On the other hand, Manchester United encountered a setback against Brentford, being held to a 1-1 draw despite Mason Mount’s late goal. Erik ten Hag acknowledged his team’s lackluster performance, admitting that they did not deserve the win. With a significant gap to close in pursuit of a Champions League spot, United cannot afford any further slip-ups.
On the other hand, Manchester United encountered a setback against Brentford, being held to a 1-1 draw despite Mason Mount’s late goal. Erik ten Hag acknowledged his team’s lackluster performance, admitting that they did not deserve the win. With a significant gap to close in pursuit of a Champions League spot, United cannot afford any further slip-ups.
Team News
Both Chelsea and Manchester United are grappling with injury concerns ahead of their upcoming clash. Chelsea will be missing key players like Wesley Fofana and Reece James, while uncertainties linger over Malo Gusto and Ben Chilwell’s fitness.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez are sidelined for “at least a month” due to hamstring and calf injuries, joining Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial, and Tyrell Malacia in the treatment room.
Raphael Varane, Altay Bayindir, and Jonny Evans are all doubtful, although Varane could potentially partner Harry Maguire in central defense pending a late fitness assessment.
In midfield, Casemiro and former Chelsea player Mason Mount are vying for starting spots, with Scott McTominay, who scored twice in the previous fixture against Chelsea, also in contention.Although Amad Diallo is available after suspension, it’s unlikely that either he or Antony will displace Alejandro Garnacho or Marcus Rashford on the flanks.
Although Amad Diallo is available after suspension, it’s unlikely that either he or Antony will displace Alejandro Garnacho or Marcus Rashford on the flanks.
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Petrovic; Disasi, Silva, Badiashile, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling; Jackson
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Wan-Bissaka; Mainoo, McTominay; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
Kick Off Time
The match is set to commence at 8:15 pm (GMT+1) on Thursday and will signify the 64th encounter between these two teams in the top-flight since the establishment of the Premier League.
