Prediction: 1-1
Odds: 6/1
Bookmaker: Bet365
The race for the top four in the Premier League could get even fiercer on Sunday as Manchester United host Chelsea at Old Trafford.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s troops currently sit sixth in the table but only three points behind this weekend’s opponents who currently occupy fourth position under Maurizio Sarri. With Arsenal also in action, and Tottenham Hotspur having fallen to defeat at the hands of West Ham United on Saturday, a victory for either side really could go a long way.
Manchester United
If the Red Devils are to get into the UEFA Champions League next season, they really do need to rectify their stuttering form. Despite Solskjaer’s initial impact at Old Trafford, United have only won two out of their last nine games in all competitions, losing seven of them. As a matter of fact, they come into the clash with the Blues off the back of a run of three consecutive losses, failing to find the back of the net in any of those games. The last time that the Red Devils lost four games in a row in all competitions was back in December 2015. Specifically, it is their defence that has let them down during the 2018/19 campaign. The team have 50 goals in the Premier League already this season. Only Watford in the top-half of the table have shipped more this season. Their home form could give them hope as they host Chelsea though. In 17 matches at Old Trafford this season, they have only lost two. Only Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City have lost fewer games on home soil this season.
Team News
Midfield duo Scott McTominay and Ander Herrera will be subjected to late fitness tests after returning to training following various problems. Eric Bailly could also make his return to action from concussion. Phil Jones though is a major doubt with a knock. He could potentially join long-term absentee Antonio Valencia on the treatment table.
Chelsea
Currently in prime position for the final Champions League place, a victory against United could pretty much wrap up fourth place for Chelsea. That feat is all the more remarkable considering the reported pressure that Maurizio Sarri has felt at Stamford Bridge this season. One reason between that could be the Blues’ form away from home this season. The 2016/17 Premier League winners have lost seven out of their 17 away games this season – as many as Newcastle United. Five of those defeats have come within their last seven trips away from the capital and some of them have been heavy losses such as the 4-0 loss to Bournemouth and the 6-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester City. As a matter of fact, the Blues have only managed to keep one clean sheet in their last 12 away games – an aspect that they will surely have to improve upon as they travel to Old Trafford.
Team News
The Blues will be without youngster Callum Hudson-Odoi for the rest of the season after he suffered an Achilles injury in the 2-2 draw with Burnley last time out. The winger will join long-term absentees Ethan Ampadu and Marco van Ginkel on the sidelines. Elsewhere, N’Golo Kante and Marcos Alonso will be subjected to late fitness tests after suffering with a rib and gluteal injury respectively. Antonio Rudiger could make his return to the Blues’ backline.
Key Facts To Consider
- Manchester United have a better all-time record between the two teams (W78, D50, L54)
- The last game between the two ended 2-0 to the Red Devils in the FA Cup in February
- Chelsea have only won one out of their last ten games at Old Trafford
- Manchester United have not lost four games in a row since December 2015
- The Red Devils have lost seven out of their last nine games
Conclusion
With both teams aiming to be in the top four next season, this game really is massive. A win for either really could tip the balance. However, the two teams actually come into the game in poor form which could make this affair slightly cagey, considering the magnitude of the game. Goals could potentially be at a premium then.
Prediction: 1-1
Odds: 6/1
Bookmaker: Bet365
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