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With Ruud van Nistelrooy at the helm, Manchester United headline this weekend’s Premier League action on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 4:30 PM UK time, as they face their long-standing rivals Chelsea at Old Trafford. Both teams come into this fixture with contrasting fortunes in the EFL Cup, where United crushed Leicester City 5-2, while Chelsea suffered elimination at the hands of Newcastle United.

Match Significance

As Manchester United’s board finalises Ruben Amorim’s managerial contract, interim boss Van Nistelrooy aims to extend his winning start after a confidence-boosting midweek performance. The Red Devils, currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, desperately need a victory to climb the table. Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, fifth in the league, are eyeing a return to winning ways after their EFL Cup exit.

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Team Analysis

Manchester United

Under Van Nistelrooy’s temporary guidance, United found their attacking rhythm midweek, led by an inspired Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, who netted twice against Leicester. However, inconsistency remains a concern, highlighted by a 2-1 defeat to West Ham last weekend that led to Erik ten Hag’s departure.

United’s attacking prowess was on full display against Leicester, but their Premier League tally of just eight goals from nine matches underlines a broader struggle. Injuries continue to plague the squad, with Antony, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, and Kobbie Mainoo all ruled out. Christian Eriksen’s late withdrawal against Leicester adds to the uncertainty, though Andre Onana is expected to return in goal, replacing Altay Bayindir.

Chelsea

Chelsea, rejuvenated under Maresca, have been prolific in front of goal, thanks largely to Cole Palmer’s standout performances. Despite their EFL Cup disappointment, the Blues’ Premier League form has been strong, marked by seven consecutive away games with goals. However, their recent 2-1 defeat to Liverpool snapped a five-game winning streak on the road.

With only Omari Kellyman sidelined due to a hamstring issue, Chelsea are otherwise at full strength. Pedro Neto is set to start on the left, filling in for Jadon Sancho, who is ineligible to face his parent club. Maresca is expected to field a strong XI, with Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo anchoring the midfield and Cole Palmer orchestrating the attack.

Predicted Lineups: Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Ugarte; Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Fofana, Colwill, Gusto; Caicedo, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Jackson

Key Players to Watch

For Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes’s playmaking and goal-scoring will be pivotal, while Casemiro’s midfield dominance will be essential in winning the battle in the centre of the park. For Chelsea, Cole Palmer’s creativity and Reece James’s overlapping runs will be key to breaking down United’s defence.

Head-to-Head and Form

The recent head-to-head history between the two clubs has been eventful, with Manchester United winning 4-1 in the 2022-23 season before Chelsea claimed a thrilling 4-3 victory in one of the standout games of 2023-24. United’s form remains patchy, with just one victory in their last five league outings. In contrast, Chelsea’s consistent performances have kept them in the Champions League hunt, though they must recover from the midweek setback.

Betting Tips and Predictions

Prediction: Manchester United 2-2 Chelsea Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Manchester United 2-2 Chelsea.

Justification: Both teams have shown attacking intent but defensive vulnerabilities. United’s boosted morale from their midweek win and Chelsea’s scoring streak suggest a high-scoring affair.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes. Both sides have the offensive firepower and defensive inconsistencies to make this a goal-filled contest.

Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5. Given the recent attacking displays by both teams, expect multiple goals.

First Goal Scorer: Bruno Fernandes. His recent form and leadership position him as a likely candidate to open the scoring.

Hot Stat: Chelsea have scored in seven consecutive Premier League away games.

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