Chelsea return to action this weekend with a fascinating trip to Old Trafford to face rivals Manchester United.
Chelsea visit Manchester United on Sunday afternoon in the Premier League, which is an important game for both sides for different reasons.
For the Blues, they’re fifth in the division table and need to keep up the momentum in the league.
There’s some added pressure because Enzo Maresca’s side were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Newcastle United in midweek. Chelsea fans wanted Maresca to use Cole Palmer in the Newcastle defeat, but he’s been rested ahead of the weekend.
As for Man United, they’ve got Ruud van Nistelrooy as their interim boss despite widespread reports that Ruben Amorim will soon become the club’s new permanent manager.
Paul Merson predicts result of Manchester United vs Chelsea
Paul Merson thinks Chelsea’s impressive away form this season will continue on Sunday by beating Man United in their own backyard. Incidentally, the Blues have won three of their four league matches away from home so far this campaign.
Merson told Sportskeeda: “I think Chelsea will win this game. I only say that because they’ll play out from the back and the only way they can get beat is if teams get the ball from them high up the pitch by closing them down. I don’t think United will do that up front, they’re just lazy. So I have a feeling that Chelsea can play through them and win the game…
“United went and won 5-2 against Leicester in their cup game. I’m thinking if Ten Hag was still there, Chelsea would be huge favorites in this game. But with Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge now, there will be a change for sure. They still look at bit disjointed though, not what you expect from a proper team. The problem is that United don’t have enough time to work on these things and beat Chelsea this weekend…
“Prediction: Manchester United 1-3 Chelsea.”
Jeff Stelling is also tipping Chelsea to beat Man United, so there’s some pressure for the visitors to capitalise on the current turmoil at Old Trafford.
Chelsea should be confident on the road
Hopefully, Maresca’s side can shine again away from home this season.
So far, Chelsea have really caught the eye when they’ve played away from home, regularly catching teams out on the counter-attack with pace and directness.
Here is a look at the Blues record in Premier League away games this campaign:
Games Wins Draws Losses Goals scored Goals against Points
4 3 0 1 11 4 9
Interestingly, Man United have found it difficult when playing at home this season.
The Red Devils have two wins and two defeats from four Premier League home matches, scoring three times and conceding seven.
