Manchester United will host Chelsea in one of the most exciting encounters of this season on Sunday. The Blues are on their road to their sixth Premier League title but the Red Devils would be trying to delay the proceedings. United have faced Antonio Conte’s men two times this season and the Blues have managed to snatch victories on both occasions.
Revenge would be on Jose Mourinho’s mind but he has to also take care of the fact that they also have Europa League commitments and he cannot risk any players who are not fit enough to feature. Mourinho would like to avoid another draw as it will be a setback for United’s top four hopes. The Red Devils haven’t picked up full points in most of the matches and their poor home record has compelled them to spend most of the season in the sixth position.
On the other hand, Antonio Conte’s side will have an added advantage as they have no major injury concerns to think about. Added to that they have enough rest before the important clash while United players are bound to be a little bit tired as they had to return from Belgium after playing their Europa League tie against Anderlecht.
Team News And Predicted Lineups
Manchester United
Mourinho is sweating over the fitness of David De Gea who missed the last two matches with a hip injury. The Spaniard is trying hard and might make it to the match. Juan Mata, Ashley Young, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all carrying injuries.
De Gea; Valencia, Bailly, Rojo, Shaw; Carrick, Herrera, Pogba; Mkhitaryan, Ibrahimovic, Martial.
Chelsea
Antonio Conte has no major injury problems.
Courtois; Azpilicueta, Luiz, Cahill; Moses, Kante, Matic, Alonso, Pedro, Costa, Hazard.
Key Players
Manchester United
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The 35-year-old enjoys these kinds of high voltage matches and has the pedigree to perform with sheer brilliance. The Ex Sweden international would be aiming to reach 30 goals this season in this match. He has been United’s only source of goals this season as second highest goalscorer Juan Mata is way behind him with six goals. Ibrahimovic would be hoping to display another top notch performance to derail Chelsea.
N’Golo Kante
The French midfielder has been nominated for the PFA player of the year for his excellent performance in the Blues midfield. Kante has been Chelsea’s flag bearer this season and he has been a constant presence in the midfield intercepting opposition attacks and recovering balls. Mourinho needs to find a way to stop Kante to give United an edge in this match.
Odds
Manchester United- 9/5
Draw- 21/10
Chelsea- 15/8
