Manchester United Vs. Chelsea: Team Updates And Injury News Ahead Of Premier League Clash
Two of the most illustrious clubs in English football, Manchester United and Chelsea, will lock horns at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon in a highly anticipated Premier League clash. Both teams have enjoyed contrasting fortunes in recent weeks, with United on a three-match winning streak in all competitions, while Chelsea have lost their last two Premier League outings.
Team News
Manchester United
United boss Erik ten Hag has a near fully-fit squad to choose from, with only long-term absentee Christian Eriksen ruled out. Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial are both back in contention after missing the midweek Carabao Cup win over Burnley, while Diogo Dalot is also expected to return to the starting XI after being rested for that game.
Predicted Starting XI: De Gea; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Fred; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Martial
Chelsea
Chelsea, meanwhile, have a number of injury concerns to contend with. Reece James (knee), Wesley Fofana (knee), Ben Chilwell (hamstring), N'Golo Kante (thigh), and Armando Broja (knee) are all ruled out, while Mateo Kovacic is a doubt with a calf problem.
Predicted Starting XI: Kepa; Azpilicueta, Silva, Koulibaly, Cucurella; Loftus-Cheek, Jorginho, Gallagher; Ziyech, Aubameyang, Sterling
Key Battles
Casemiro vs. Jorginho
The battle between these two midfield maestros will be crucial to the outcome of the game. Casemiro has been in excellent form for United since his summer move from Real Madrid, providing a solid shield for the defense and contributing with some important goals. Jorginho, meanwhile, is the heartbeat of Chelsea's midfield, dictating the tempo of the game with his passing and providing a defensive presence.
Antony vs. Marc Cucurella
Another key battle will be on the flanks, where United's Antony will go up against Chelsea's Marc Cucurella. Antony has been one of United's most impressive performers this season, with his pace, skill, and goalscoring threat making him a dangerous outlet. Cucurella, on the other hand, is a solid defender but can also be a threat going forward with his attacking runs.
Marcus Rashford vs. Thiago Silva
Marcus Rashford has been in red-hot form for United in recent weeks, scoring five goals in his last six appearances. He will be a handful for Chelsea's defense, led by the experienced Thiago Silva. Silva is one of the best defenders in the world, but he will have his work cut out against the in-form Rashford.
Prediction
Both teams will be desperate to get back to winning ways in the Premier League, but Manchester United will be confident of extending their winning streak at home. Chelsea have struggled for consistency this season and are missing some key players through injury. A narrow victory for United is on the cards.
Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea