Manchester United will lock horns with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening, hoping to pick up all three points away from home. The Red Devils will be coming into the match on the back of an encouraging 2-0 win against Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League, whereas Thomas Tuchel’s men recorded a thumping 4-0 victory over Juventus.
Thomas Tuchel will probably opt for the 3-4-3 formation; however, he is expected to make a couple of changes for the upcoming contest. Romelu Lukaku might get the nod over Christian Pulisic in attack, whereas Marcos Alonso looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
3-4-3 Chelsea Predicted Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
Eduardo Mendy is expected to start in between the sticks for the upcoming clash. The Senegalese shot-stopper will be hoping to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Sunday.
Thiago Silva is expected to start at the heart of the Blues’ backline, whereas Antonio Rudiger will feature at the left centre-back spot. Andreas Christensen will fulfil the right centre-back position.
However, their main objective will be to keep Cristiano Ronaldo quiet throughout the ninety minutes.
Midfield
N’Golo Kante had to be taken off against Juventus in midweek shortly after the half-time mark.
“N’Golo was the same [as Chilwell]. He got stronger and stronger in the first half then twisted his knee a little bit. So hopefully, it is not too bad.” – Tuchel said.
Jorginho and Ruben Loftus-Cheek might fill the holding midfield positions, with the former occupying a more central role. The pair would be looking to dominate the midfield proceedings.
Ben Chilwell seemed to be in some severe discomfort after a collision near the centre circle on Tuesday. While the extent of the injury is not yet known, he remains a doubt for the Manchester United game.
“It worries me because he was in such a fantastic moment, like Reece on the other side. They were in the best shape they could possibly be. So strong, full of confidence, and quality.
“He was in a lot of pain and now he feels a bit better. We will have the medical examination tomorrow.” – Tuchel revealed.
As a result, Marcos Alonso might start at the left wing-back position, whereas Reece James will fill in on the other flank as the right wing-back. The duo would be expected to stretch Chelsea’s attacks in the opposition half.
Saul Niguez could feature in the second-half as well.
Attack
Mason Mount and Hakim Ziyech will slot into the attacking midfield roles. The duo would be determined to set up some clear cut goal-scoring chances for the front-men.
Romelu Lukaku, who was on the bench against Juventus in midweek, might lead the line for Chelsea this weekend. The 28-year-old will be hoping to find the back of the net when he faces off against the United defence that has conceded eight goals in their last five matches across all competitions.
Timo Werner might come on to make a cameo appearance in the second forty-five minutes.