Let’s take a look at the team news as Man United look to avoid defeat against a struggling Chelsea side to secure Champions League qualification for next season.
In their recent game against Bournemouth, the Red Devils took another significant stride towards securing a Champions League spot. They emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline, thanks to Casemiro’s goal. This win, combined with Liverpool’s draw last weekend, means that a point against Chelsea will be sufficient for Man United to secure a top-four finish this season.
Ten Hag’s first year in charge has already seen the end of the club’s trophy drought, and guiding the Red Devils back to the top European competition would be a remarkable achievement. However, the situation couldn’t be more contrasting for the Blues. With no objectives left to play for, the team is eagerly anticipating the conclusion of what has been a disastrous season.
Injury/Suspension List:
Manchester United faced another week without Marcus Rashford due to a leg injury and illness, adding to their growing list of sidelined players. Lisandro Martinez, Tom Heaton, Donny van de Beek, Marcel Sabitzer, and the departing Phil Jones will all be sidelined due to various injuries.
The Dutch manager is expected to field their strongest lineup on Thursday before potentially resting players against Fulham in the last game-week for the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City, depending on the confirmation of their top-four position.
Chelsea, on the other hand, continue to struggle with injuries as the season nears its end. The team suffered a significant setback with defender Benoit Badiashile facing a potential lengthy absence due to a groin problem sustained in training.
Mason Mount, Ben Chilwell, Armando Broja, N’Golo Kante, Marc Cucurella, Marcus Bettinelli, and Reece James also remain sidelined with various injuries, while Mateo Kovacic’s availability for Thursday’s match remains uncertain. However, Kalidou Koulibaly made a comeback from a thigh issue as a substitute in their previous match.
Player To Watch Out For – Joao Felix
One of Félix’s standout skills is his close ball control. He has excellent dribbling ability, with the capacity to maneuver through tight spaces and take on opponents with ease. His ball control is characterized by his quick feet, agility, and body feints, allowing him to deceive defenders and maintain possession in challenging situations.
In addition to his dribbling, the Portuguese winger has a keen eye for goal. He is a natural finisher and possesses a great sense of timing and positioning in the penalty area. Whether it’s powerful strikes from distance, delicate chips over the goalkeeper, or composed finishes in one-on-one situations, Félix showcases his scoring prowess with precision and creativity.
Furthermore, the 23-year-old exhibits strong vision and passing ability. He has the capability to pick out incisive through balls and play accurate passes to his teammates, contributing to the team’s attacking movements. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates demonstrates his awareness and understanding of the game.
Joao Félix also displays excellent off-the-ball movement. He possesses a good sense of space and timing, making intelligent runs to find gaps in the opposition’s defense. His movements off the ball allow him to receive passes in dangerous areas and create goal-scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Manchester United Form:
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Chelsea Form:
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Man United Probable Line-up (4-2-3-1) :
David de Gea (GK); Diogo Dalot (RB), Victor Lindelof (CB), Luke Shaw (CB), Aaron Wan-Bissaka (LB); Casemiro (CM), Fred (CM); Antony (RW), Jadon Sancho (LW), Bruno Fernandes (CAM); Marcus Rashford (ST).
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Predicted Score:
Man United 2-1 Chelsea
Manchester United have been in good form, winning three out of their last five matches while highlighting their strong defensive performances. Chelsea fielded a formidable lineup against a weakened Manchester City team, but unfortunately conceded an early goal that proved to be the decisive factor in their defeat. This result has positioned Chelsea for their lowest finish in the Premier League.
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