With Champions League qualification still up for grabs, Chelsea welcome a faltering Manchester United side to Stamford Bridge in a pivotal Friday night Premier League encounter.
The Stakes
Chelsea’s push for a top-five finish hit a snag in their last outing as they fell 2-0 to Newcastle United at St James’ Park. Goals from Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes halted a strong run of form for the Blues, who had previously gone six league matches unbeaten.
Enzo Maresca’s side now find themselves clinging to fifth place on goal difference, level on points with Aston Villa. Fortunately for the West Londoners, they return to the comforts of Stamford Bridge — where they haven’t lost a league game since Boxing Day. In fact, only Liverpool and Aston Villa boast better home records this season.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s domestic woes continue. A 2-0 defeat to West Ham last weekend extended their winless league streak to seven matches. Now languishing in 16th place, United are on course for their worst-ever Premier League finish.
Ruben Amorim’s men appear to be banking on success in next week’s Europa League final against Tottenham to salvage their season. But with tough league fixtures still to come against Chelsea and Villa, United’s campaign could hit a new low if they fail to reach even the 40-point mark — often considered the benchmark for top-flight survival.
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Team News
Chelsea are without striker Nicolas Jackson, who serves a suspension after receiving a red card against Newcastle. With Christopher Nkunku (knock) and Marc Guiu (hamstring) both unavailable, Maresca faces a selection dilemma in attack.
Centre-back Wesley Fofana and midfielder Omari Kellyman remain sidelined through injury. Additionally, Jadon Sancho is ineligible to face his parent club.
Manchester United’s injury list remains lengthy. Joshua Zirkzee (hamstring), Lisandro Martinez (knee), and Diogo Dalot (calf) are all ruled out, while young defender Leny Yoro is a doubt after hobbling off with a foot injury in the West Ham defeat.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea:
Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, George; Neto
Manchester United:
Bayindir; Fredricson, Lindelof, Shaw; Kamason, Eriksen, Ugarte, Amass; Mainoo, Garnacho; Obi
Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Manchester United
Chelsea have plenty to play for and will be keen to return to winning ways. United, with one eye on the Europa League final, are likely to rotate heavily, potentially extending their league misery. Expect the Blues to take full advantage in front of their home crowd.