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The Man Utd vs Chelsea fixture used to be one of the marquee fixtures in the Premier League, but now it’s becoming more of a footnote. Manchester City’s pursuit of a treble has overshadowed this fixture, and although United need just one point from their remaining two games to seal UCL qualification, stopping City in the FA Cup final is a higher priority.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have not been relevant at all this season, and their recent form reflects that. Frank Lampard’s team is confirmed to finish in the bottom half of the table, a first in Premier League history. It’s been a disastrous caretaker spell for Lampard, and the players will now want to finish the season on a positive note with one last big push.
As we move towards the fixture day, the predicted lineups for both teams are out. Manchester United injury slate is clearing, and with the schedule getting lighter due to Europa League elimination, Erik ten Hag hasn’t felt the need to rotate either. Their defence is well set, and it seems like no changes are expected in the midfield either. However, Marcus Rashford‘s status is one to keep an eye on, and Alejandro Garnacho might get the nod over underperforming Jadon Sancho as he gains match fitness.
Chelsea, however, has had no such luck with injuries as key players like Mason Mount, Ben Chilwell, and Marc Cucurella have been missing. Kepa Arrizabalaga will start in goal, and Wesley Fofana and ageless wonder Thiago Silva will be the centre-backs. However, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Conor Gallagher could help create some attack for Lampard.
Although recent Man Utd vs Chelsea fixtures have been a snoozefest with a total of six goals scored combined in their last five meetings, this game is still vital for both teams. Man Utd could finish third if they win their two games, while Chelsea would want to end the season on a high.
Expect Manchester United to get a goal against a mentally drained Chelsea team and nervously see out the game as Chelsea huff and puff for an equaliser. Although the score prediction is not a blow-out, it is a testament to the struggles both these teams have faced this season, and a hope that they will come back stronger next season.
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