Chelsea have only lost once to United since the post-Ferguson era, and that defeat was in last season’s fixture – with Mourinho grabbing bragging rights for the first time since his departure.
It’s that thrilling time again when all eyes turn to Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho welcoming his former club, Chelsea, to his new stomping ground at Manchester United. Despite the distance between the two clubs ruling out a traditional derby, this rivalry has intensified over the years – especially after the ‘Special One’ moved from Chelsea to United.
English Premier League
Sunday 25 February
Old Trafford | 16:05
Betting Odds to Win
Man United 11/10
Draw 9/4
Chelsea 26/10
Manchester United
Man United’s current league form shows they can challenge any team, but Mourinho will be targeting another win against his old club at home. Though inconsistent recently, winning half of their last four matches, the Red Devils have been sturdy at Old Trafford.
Mourinho’s cautious tactical style contrasts with Klopp and Guardiola’s approaches, but it’s effective, keeping United three points ahead of Chelsea and comfortably ahead of third-placed Liverpool. With the title out of reach, their main aim is to secure a Champions League spot.
A key concern is Paul Pogba’s frustrations under Mourinho, possibly playing out of position, but if Ander Herrera partners Nemanja Matic, the midfield could be solid. Pogba’s freedom is crucial to unlock an attacking force featuring Alexis Sanchez, Anthony Martial, and Romelu Lukaku, who’s eager to prove himself after criticism in big games.
Chelsea
Chelsea are keen to shake off the ‘fallen champions’ label and finish the season strong. Antonio Conte’s title-winning tactics with a three-man defence impressed last season, but this campaign has been rocky, missing chances and dropping unexpected points.
Currently fourth, the Blues could push to second if they beat United and Liverpool stumble. Issues seem twofold: some players may be disillusioned with the manager, similar to Mourinho’s Chelsea spell, compounded by injuries to vital players during a hectic schedule.
Key players like Alvaro Morata, Ross Barkley, David Luiz, and Marcos Alonso have faced injury setbacks. However, Chelsea showed resilience recently with a 3-0 league win over West Brom and a 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final triumph over Hull City.
Morata, scorer of the winner in their last encounter, is back, alongside Olivier Giroud, who has a knack for scoring against United. Eden Hazard’s partnerships with these strikers could spell trouble for Man United’s defence.
Prediction: Manchester United (11/10)
Despite his divisive reputation, Mourinho’s teams get crucial results. With David De Gea conceding only five home goals this season, expect Man United’s firepower of Sanchez, Martial, and Lukaku to edge out Chelsea in this high-stakes clash.
