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Manchester United vs Chelsea live updates: McTominay goal opens scoring in Premier League game at Old Trafford
Follow live coverage as Manchester United host Chelsea in a heavyweight Premier League clash today
Michael Dominski and Ed Mackey
Manchester United vs Chelsea live updates: McTominay goal opens scoring in Premier League game at Old Trafford
(Photo: Getty Images)
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Ed Mackey
Ed Mackey
Latest: Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Bruno Fernandes missed early penalty (9′) after Enzo Fernandez foul on Antony
Mykhailo Mudryk hit the post at the other end (12′)
Scott McTominay volleyed in the opened after an excellent United start (19′)
McTominay then missed golden chance to double the lead (32′) before Andre Onana saved from Nicolas Jackson (33′)
Man Utd starting XI: Onana, Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw, Amrabat, McTominay, Fernandes, Garnacho, Antony, Hojlund
Chelsea starting XI: Sanchez, Cucurella, Disasi, Silva, Colwill, Sterling, Fernandez, Caicedo, Mudryk, Palmer, Jackson
Sophie Harris
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Onana vs Sanchez
38′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Onana looks confident on the ball. I never feel worried when he is.
Sanchez, on the other hand, has had a few shaky moments, which have encouraged United to press and put more pressure on him. He needs to keep things simple and find his next pass.
Lawrie Sanchez
Lawrie Sanchez
Football manager
The managers can’t be happy
36′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
The goalkeepers have been on top tonight, but as a manager I wouldn’t be happy with how open the game is spread. Although United are on top, Chelsea could have scored a couple themselves already.
Including Mudryk with the latest chance, but he drags his effort from close range just wide of the near post!
Sophie Harris
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Remarkable we’ve only had one goal so far
35′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Unfortunate for McTominay there. He was in the right place at the right time, but hit it straight at Sanchez.
Jackson should be scoring his chance at the other end. Onana didn’t dive in or try to guess. He stayed big and made it difficult for Jackson, a great bit of goalkeeping.
This game is so open!
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Jackson can’t finish past Onana!
33′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Onana rushes out to deny Jackson on a counter-attack moments later at the other end!
Following a recent trend of high-profile Premier League matches, this contest has been super open, without much defence to be found.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Sanchez denies McTominay!
(Photo: Getty Images)
32′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Fernandes curls a lovely ball into the six-yard box. McTominay gets his head to it but his effort is straight to Sanchez.
The rebound hits off McTominay’s feet and into Sanchez again! A double save by the Chelsea keeper but McTominay should have done better there.
Simon Johnson
Chelsea Correspondent
Chelsea have had chances
(Photo: Getty Images)
30′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Chelsea’s final ball is really letting them down so far. As bad as they’ve been at the back, they could have got a goal themselves if had they got things right in the final third.
They’re trailing the shot count 11-2, but it should be a lot closer than that given some of the opportunities they have had.
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
United have struggled to retain leads, though
29′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
This is United all over though. We’ve seen it so much in the Champions League – they take a lead and end up losing the game!
Given that, Chelsea won’t get too anxious just yet as they know they will get chances in the game.
Lawrie Sanchez
Football manager
United need to capitalise
28′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
I feel United need to put this game to bed while they are on top because Chelsea will wake up sooner or later.
Liam Tharme
Much-improved first half by United
26′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
This is already United’s best first half at home this season, in all competitions, in terms of shots. Eleven, with five on target, and we have only played 25 minutes.
They’ve needed better starts in big games, and got it thus far. Only their second home game in the Premier League this season in which they’ve scored in the first half.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Sterling appeals for penalty
(Photo: Getty Images)
25′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
Sterling goes to ground in the United box, feeling he was tripped up by Lindelof, but the referee feels otherwise.
VAR takes a quick look but doesn’t intervene.
Carl Anka
Man Utd Correspondent
Open play up and down the pitch
24′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
A schoolyard football feel to this match so far, with both teams being sieve-like in midfield, but committed to pressing high up the field.
Feels like a repeat of United’s 4-1 win over Chelsea towards the end of last season. Ten Hag will hope for a similar result.
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Chelsea need to tighten up
22′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
United have started the game better and it’s McTominay again that finds space in the penalty box. He has too much time to take a touch and direct his shot towards goal.
Chelsea need to tighten up at the back and their full-backs need to get out and stop the crosses coming into the box.
Meanwhile, Garnacho loses the ball to Cucurella, responds by taking him down and promptly receives a booking.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
McTominay’s opening goal
(Photo: Getty Images)
21′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
A sloppy giveaway by Mudryk starts United’s attack. Amrabat smartly releases Hojlund down the left wing, whose cross finds Maguire. His shot is blocked near the goal line, but the rebound comes right out to McTominay, who coolly fires the ball into the lower corner!
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
GOAL! United in front!
19′ Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea
McTominay gives United the lead they deserve!
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Silva denies Antony
19′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Antony nearly forces a loose ball home from point-blank range, but Silva does well to go to ground and keep the ball out.
Chelsea are clinging on here, just.
Carl Anka
Man Utd Correspondent
Fernandes contributing defensively
16′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Fernandes’ recovery runs may have caused issues in Turkey, but he makes a sublime one to cut out a pass from Mudryk here. No player in Europe’s top five leagues has played more minutes than the United captain in 2023. There aren’t many who run harder either.
Shaw was booked a moment ago for a bad foul on Sterling.
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Both keepers distinguishing themselves at the moment
14′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Momentum can change with moments and Chelsea will be hoping they can get more control of the game after United’s penalty miss.
Both teams are having opportunities from mistakes, with the goalkeepers coming to each teams’ rescue at the moment.
Onana makes a routine save on a chance for Mudryk, though he did but stay big and make it difficult.
Simon Johnson
Chelsea Correspondent
Chelsea deserve to be behind
13′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Pochettino knows his team have got away with one there thanks to Sanchez’s heroics and is urging his players to raise their game. The TV camera pans to him shouting ‘come on, come on’ to his players as the game restarted. They deserve to be behind the way they have started this match.
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Weak penalty by Fernandes
(Photo: Getty Images)
11′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Poor penalty by Fernandez. Sanchez waits and doesn’t go early, then uses a strong hand to keep the ball out.
Even with the United captain’s run-up, that needs more power in the corner.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Hojlund consoles Fernandes
10′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Hojlund is straight over to Bruno Fernandes to console him after his penalty is saved, before then instructing team-mates to get into defensive shape.
If United want to capitalise on their early pressure, they’ll have to do it the hard way.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
SAVE! Sanchez denies Fernandes!
(Photo: Getty Images)
9′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
A very weak penalty is saved by Sanchez before Garnacho fires the rebound over the crossbar!
Carl Anka
Man Utd Correspondent
PENALTY to United!
8′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Early chances for Manchester United at the moment. First a Luke Shaw through-ball find Rasmus Hojlund who has an on-target shot, followed by Ten Hag’s men winning the ball high up the field and feeding in Antony. The Brazilian’s heavy touch in the box leads to him being felled and now United have been awarded a penalty!
United’s fast start has Chelsea on the back foot and offered up a chance to open the scoring!
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
VAR review
7′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
The referee has been summoned to the monitor to see if United should be awarded a penalty for a foul by Fernandez on Antony in the box!
Lawrie Sanchez
Football manager
Cucurella’s surprising start
5′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Cucurella makes a mess of a clearance, conceding a corner to United in the process. In my opinion, Cucurella coming into the team at right-back is a slap in the face for Reece James.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Chance for Hojlund
4′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Hojlund gets free down the left wing and looks to pass the ball past Sanchez in Chelsea’s goal, but keeper makes a solid save.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Fernandes takes the first shot
3′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Dalot backs down Colwill on United’s right wing before crossing for Fernandes. The United captain shoots from well beyond the box but misses over the bar.
An audacious effort but we saw Fernandes score a screamer from distance last week in Turkey.
Simon Johnson
Chelsea Correspondent
Surprise in Chelsea’s formation
2′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Pochettino has sprung a surprise by starting with Marc Cucurella as a right-back, with Levi Colwill at left-back. Axel Disasi is partnering Thiago Silva in the middle of Chelsea’s defence.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Kick-off!
1′ Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
The visitors get the ball rolling and we’re underway at Old Trafford!
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Teams are on the pitch!
(Photo: Getty Images)
We’re just minutes away from kick-off at Old Trafford now!
Both of these clubs could sorely do with a win today.
In the meantime please enjoy this lovely photo of Steve McClaren.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Man Utd aren’t starting well at home
(Photo: Getty Images)
In six out of their seven Premier League matches at Old Trafford thus far this season, Manchester United have failed to score before half-time.
Erik ten Hag will surely be hoping for a quicker start today.
Lawrie Sanchez
Football manager
Palmer’s move to Chelsea accelerated his career
(Photo: Getty Images)
Cole Palmer has probably progressed his career by a year or two by moving so early in his career from Manchester City to Chelsea.
You see how long it took for Phil Foden to establish himself at City. Cole thought he didn’t want to take that long and that a move would make it happen quicker – he’s been proven right.
Ed Mackey
Three players on verge of yellow card suspension
The cutoff for yellow card suspensions is coming up.
Once a team has played 19 Premier League games, the slate is wiped clean. However, until then, players who accumulate five yellow cards will be suspended for one match. Today marks match No 15 for each club.
For Chelsea, Nicolas Jackson and Marc Cucurella have already served a ban, but a couple of their team-mates are one booking away from missing a game.
The players involved in today’s game that have been shown four yellow cards are:
Enzo Fernandez
Raheem Sterling
Bruno Fernandes
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Maguire responds to reports of dressing room upheaval
(Photo: Getty Images)
Prior to kick-off, Harry Maguire was asked about recent reports that questioned his team-mates commitment to manager Erik ten Hag.
“I can only speak on behalf of myself and from what I see day in and day out in training,” he said, “the lads are fully committed to the manager and the club. Every time we wear this badge, speaking on behalf of myself it means so much, its a huge honour to play for this club. From what I see in training day in and day out, I’m sure the lads feel the same.”
GO FURTHER
Ten Hag bullish after Man Utd ban reporters from press conference
Ed Mackey
Wednesday’s Premier League action is underway
(Photo: Getty Images)
A quick reminder that this game is one of six in the Premier League today.
The first four got underway about 15 minutes ago.
Brighton 0-0 Brentford
Crystal Palace 0-0 Bournemouth
Fulham 0-0 Nottingham Forest
Sheffield United 0-0 Liverpool
Aston Villa vs Manchester City – 8:15pm GMT
Manchester United vs Chelsea – 8:15pm GMT
Ed Mackey
Pochettino explains James absence
(Photo: Getty Images)
Reece James was banned for the visit of Brighton on Sunday but is available for selection today. Pochettino has decided to put him among the substitutes rather than in the starting XI, here is why.
“For different reasons, we need to care about him,” he told Amazon Prime. “Now, we need build his momentum. After Newcastle, he was banned against Brighton and the most important thing now is to build his confidence.
“Little by little, he’s going to be on the pitch with the team but, at the moment, we prefer to keep him on the bench.”
Ed Mackey
Colwill: ‘We know what we’re capable of now’
(Photo: Getty Images)
Colwill scored his first Premier League goal on Sunday as Chelsea held on for a gutsy 3-2 win against Brighton. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he spoke about the platform is has given him and his team-mates.
“It was tough for us, we had to stay together but it shows what team we’re building,” said the 20-year-old. “We had 10 men for the whole of the second half and we had to dig deep.
“It brings us closer as a team and we know what we’re capable of now. That’s a big stepping stone and a big way to move forward.
“We’re definitely building something. When we get players back, it’s going to be really exciting for us but we’ve still got amazing players right now.
“We’re pushing forward and coming to win tonight.”
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Two changes for Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino makes two changes to the starting line-up Chelsea deployed last time out, one enforced and one by choice.
Marc Cucurella comes in at left-back for Benoit Badiashile, which allows Levi Colwill to return to his more natural position of left-sided centre-back, while Cole Palmer replaces the suspended Conor Gallagher.
Lawrie Sanchez
Football manager
Rashford could benefit from a reset
(Photo: Getty Images)
I think that Marcus Rashford may have become distracted by his off-field activities, which is entirely understandable for a young man.
He could benefit from a reset because a player’s career is only so long, and he can use his influence long after he has finished playing.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Team news
Manchester United XI: Onana, Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Shaw, Amrabat, McTominay, Fernandes, Garnacho, Antony, Hojlund.
Subs: Bayindir, Martial, Rashford, Reguilon, Pellistri, Wan-Bissaka, Van de Beek, Evans, Mainoo.
Chelsea XI: Sanchez, Cucurella, Disasi, Silva, Colwill, Sterling, Fernandez, Caicedo, Mudryk, Palmer, Jackson.
Subs: Petrovic, Badiashile, Broja, James, Maatsen, Washington, Gilchrist, Matos, Castledine.
Sophie Harris
Professional goalkeeper
Dropping Rashford is warranted
(Photo: Getty Images)
After watching him against Newcastle the other day, dropping Marcus Rashford is warranted. There was no fight, no desire to work for his team-mates or his manager. It was the worst display I have seen from him.
At least if he was willing to run at defenders or win the ball back and show willingness to fight, you could overlook his scoring struggles. But there was nothing. So disappointing when he would be one of the players Manchester United would look to to get them through this rough patch.
It makes you wonder what is happening behind the scenes!
Ed Mackey
Full team news coming five minutes
(Photo: Getty Images)
We have told you about Rashford dropping to the bench and we will have the full team news from both teams very shortly.
Stick with us!
Carl Anka
Man Utd Correspondent
Antony’s defensive contributions preferred to Rashford
(Photo: Getty Images)
A drop in goalscoring form led Erik ten Hag to prefer Alejandro Garnacho to Marcus Rashford on the left wing and now, disappointing defensive output has seen the United manager drop Rashford to the bench in favour of Antony.
The £86 million winger has yet to be the goalscorer or creator that Ten Hag might have hoped for United, but he remains the club’s most disciplined winger when it comes to defensive tasks. Rashford, who expressed his discomfort at playing on the right to Gary Neville last summer, will have to make do with substitute appearances to play his way back into form.
Laurie Whitwell
Manchester United Correspondent
Rashford drops to Man Utd bench
(Photo: Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford has been dropped to the substitutes’ bench for Manchester United’s visit of Chelsea.
United manager Erik ten Hag has selected a front line of Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Antony, with the latter coming in for Rashford.
The England international had started all but one of United’s 14 Premier League games this season — missing last month’s 1-0 win at Fulham through injury — but has yet to find his best form, registering only two goals and one assist. He has been played on the right-hand side of United’s front three in recent weeks, with Garnacho occupying the left-wing spot, but that has not proved fruitful.
Rashford has failed to score in the Champions League and has looked out of sorts following a career-best 30-goal season, primarily playing off the left, in 2022-23.
In United’s last game, the 1-0 defeat at Newcastle United, Ten Hag took Rashford off just after the hour mark with his side chasing the game.
GO FURTHER
Rashford is finding out that homegrown players are held to a higher standard – rightly or wrongly
Ed Mackey
Sterling still waiting to break United duck
(Photo: Getty Images)
There is no club Raheem Sterling has faced more in his career than Manchester United.
During his time at Liverpool, Manchester City and now Chelsea, he has played against them 24 times.
His results record against United reads like this:
Wins – 8
Draws – 4
Losses 12
When it comes to goals, his record reads like this:
Goals – 0
Assists – 2
There is only one other clubs he has faced more than five times without scoring; Hull City, against whom he has played seven times.
Tonight would be the perfect time to break his Manchester United drought.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
‘Big games bring big performances’
(Photo: Getty Images)
On the other side of our discussion page, Chelsea supporter Chris S strikes a more optimistic tone: Big performance and big result coming from the boys tonight. United are a shambles and we’ve got all the hallmarks of a young, talented but immature squad. Big games bring big performances.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
‘This squad has a long way to go’
(Photo: Getty Images)
Our subscribers are engaging in a frank exchange of ideas regarding today’s match on our discussion page, join the conversation now!
Manchester United supporter Jake S says: It’s a tough game, no doubt, win or lose I’ll still be behind the manager. Get Ratcliffe’s team in, create the right environment and get the right profiles in. This squad has a long way to go and it’s going to be painful, no club has made it to the top without wading through the s*** first.
Ed Mackey
And what about Chelsea?
(Photo: Getty Images)
Chelsea’s summer signing has not had the same issues as Hojlund in the Premier League as he has been his side’s leading marksman so far this season and his tally includes a first career hat-trick which he scored against Tottenham.
Six – Nicolas Jackson
Five – Raheem Sterling
Four – Cole Palmer
Three – None
Two – Enzo Fernandez, Mykhailo Mudryk
One – Armando Broja, Carney Chukwuemeka, Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Thiago Silva
Ed Mackey
Who is scoring the goals for United?
(Photo: Getty Images)
Good question!
In the absence of Premier League goals from their forwards, it is the United midfielders who lead the way. Although, they have hardly had to be prolific to top the scoring charts so far.
3 – Bruno Fernandes, Scott McTominay
2 – Marcus Rashford
1 – Casemiro, Diogo Dalot, Christian Eriksen, Alejandro Garnacho, Victor Lindelof, Anthony Martial, Hannibal Mejbri, Raphael Varane
In all competitions, no player has scored more for United than Rasmus Hojlund, but all five of his goals have come in the Champions League as he searches for a first in the Premier League.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
No home comfort for Rashford
(Photo: Getty Images)
Last season, Marcus Rashford loved played at Old Trafford. He scored 20 goals in 30 home games in all competitions. Only Erling Haaland score more goals at home among Premier League players.
This season hasn’t gone nearly as well for Rashford though. In 10 appearances at Old Trafford thus far, he’s yet to score.
GO FURTHER
Rashford is finding out that homegrown players are held to a higher standard – rightly or wrongly
Ed Mackey
Looking back at Chelsea’s last PL win at Old Trafford
(Photo: Getty Images)
You have to go back more than 10 years to find Chelsea’s last Premier League victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
By the time Rafa Benitez’s side arrived in the north west, the home side already knew they would be lifting the title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s last season.
Fortunately, it was not his final home game in charge as, with four minutes left of the 90, Juan Mata’s deflected strike found the back of the net after a touch from David de Geas’s far post.
Less than a year later, the Spanish midfielder made the switch between the clubs for almost £40m.
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Pochettino wants better discipline
(Photo: Getty Images)
Conor Gallagher is suspended for this match while both Enzo Fernandez and Raheem Sterling are each a booking away from a suspension of their own. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have seen seven yellow cards for dissent this season, along with another seven for time-wasting and five for arguing with opponents. Ahead of today’s match, the Chelsea manager addressed this issue with his players.
“We were talking in the meeting and I showed the players clips of the yellow cards,” he said. “There have been too many. The rules have changed this season. We touch the ball from here to there and get too many yellow cards. That is a tic we need to change. We need to be clever.
“You upset the referee and you get a yellow card, and then in an action that can happen during a game, you can receive another yellow card. We have received too many yellow cards like this.
“We need to be clever in improving this area because we cannot be silly and repeat the same mistakes.”
Ed Mackey
Pochettino on whether it is a good time to play Manchester United
(Photo: Getty Images)
In his pre-match press conference, the Chelsea manager was asked whether there is ever a good time to face United at Old Trafford.
“No, we cannot change the time,” responded Pochettino. “It’s always good to play at Old Trafford because it’s an amazing place, stadium, fans, team, club. It’s always a great opportunity to play there but I think we are all in similar level with different situations.
“I don’t say that it is a good moment to go there. The most important thing is to feel ready to compete because we are going to face a team that is going to be tough because they want to win and we want to keep our momentum and build from Brighton and be higher in the table.
“It’s important for us to be in a different position. It’s a game that we need to go there and try to win.”
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Palmer looking forward to Manchester return
(Photo: Getty Images)
Cole Palmer, who grew up approximately just five miles from Old Trafford, is looking forward to tonight’s match, his first time playing in Manchester since leaving Man City for Chelsea this past summer.
“I’m relishing the game,” he said. “I’ve never played at Old Trafford, so hopefully I play and score a few goals.
“I’ve got a few friends who will be there who are United fans. They will be in the United end. Then my other mates will be in the Chelsea end. A few of my family are City fans, a few are United. It’ll be interesting.
“It’s been difficult (settling away from Manchester) but I think the performances from myself have helped. If I wasn’t playing, or playing rubbish, I’d be thinking what’s going on. But I’m really enjoying it to be fair.”
Michael Dominski
Live Reporter
Manchester United podcast
Anger after another disastrous road-trip
It was a full house on The Athletic’s Manchester United podcast as we dissected another awful performance away from home at a top-half Premier League side. A 1-0 defeat in Newcastle didn’t tell the story with Ten Hag’s men clearly second best throughout.
United have been drawn away in the cup(!), but the next three games will be at home, starting with tonight’s visit of Chelsea. This time, the opposition are at least as chaotic, probably more, and it’s very difficult to predict how this game will play out.
Listen here!
Ed Mackey
Ten Hag insists ‘there are no issues’ between him and his players
(Photo: Getty Images)
With speculation rife from those particular outlets about players losing faith in Ten Hag’s methods, he responded.
“Of course there are always in every team players who are not playing or less playing who are less happy,” he said. “That is not different to normal, in some circumstances you need that, they have to wait for their chance and that can come. But no, there are no issues.
“I listen always to my players and I give them always opportunities to tell, if the players have a different opinion of course I will listen. But they haven’t told me. Or maybe one or two, but it is about in general, the majority, they want to play like this – proactive, dynamic, brave, that is what they want.
“You can see the players are behind it because of the performances against Everton and Galatasaray. You see that we are really improving. You see that goal? Do you think we can make the goal we did against Everton if the players don’t embrace it? What do you think?”
Ed Mackey
ICYMI: Reporters banned from Ten Hag press conference
(Photo: Getty Images)
The big Manchester United news of Tuesday was the revelation that the club had banned a handful of reporters from Ten Hag’s pre-match press conference.
The club insisted the action was “not for publishing stories we don’t like, but for doing so without contacting us first to give us the opportunity to comment, challenge or contextualise”.
Speaking on that topic, the United manager said: “They (the media) should come to us first and not go around our back printing articles, that is not the right thing. I think we have another relationship, they can, they should come to us beforehand, we have a normal and professional discussion and debate about it.”
Ed Mackey
Manchester United and Chelsea: Two clubs in states of mutual malfunction
On the topic of not being what they once were, The Athletic’s Adam Crafton wrote a piece on the poor standards that have set in at both clubs after their periods of success.
Check it out below.
GO FURTHER
Manchester United and Chelsea, two clubs in states of mutual malfunction
Ed Mackey
What does the table look like?
(The Athletic)
Fortunately for Chelsea fans, a photo of the top half of the Premier League just includes today’s visitors.
And they do not have to look up very far to find their hosts.
In the Premier League era, it has been unthinkable to imagine both of these teams so far outside the Champions League reckoning and just once have they both missed out on a place at Europe’s top table.
Unless something changes quite drastically, a repeat of the 2015-16 season looks on the cards.
Ed Mackey
Last night’s action: Arsenal leave it late, Wolves squeeze past Burnley
(Photo: Getty Images)
There were two games to enjoy last night in the Premier League and the results were not particularly surprising.
But the manner of the one of the victories, in particular, was very surprising.
In the slightly earlier game, Hwang Hee-chan was the hero again for Wolves as he scored the only goal of the game against Burnley to give his side a 1-0 win.
While the action at Molineux was serene, the game at Kenilworth Road was anything but.
Twice Arsenal led and twice they were pegged back, after questionable goalkeeping from David Raya. Another error from the Spaniard allowed Ross Barkley to give Luton the lead.
Although, the hosts were left crestfallen when, after Kai Havertz equalised on the hour mark, Declan Rice headed into the bottom in the seventh minute of stoppage time.
Stuff of champions or an unnecessary dramatic ending for Mikel Arteta’s side?
Ed Mackey
And midweeks aren’t much brighter in the Champions League
(Photo: Getty Images)
This season, midweek fixtures have been associated with Manchester United’s dismal Champions League campaign.
This time next week, they will know whether they are through to the knockouts or eliminated after hosting Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
To go through to the last 16, they must beat the German champions while needing a draw in the match between Copenhagen and Galatasaray.
In other words, a very slim chance.
Ed Mackey
Midweek nightmares for both teams
(Photo: Getty Images)
As we are in the middle of the first full Premier League midweek of the season, it is only right that I bring you a couple of interesting midweek stats.
Spoiler: They don’t make good reading for either of tonight’s team.
When meeting in midweek, Manchester United have won just once in eight matches against Chelsea, drawing five and losing two. Although, that win came in this fixture last season.
Chelsea themselves have a pretty torrid recent midweek record; they have won one of their last 10 midweek fixtures, drawing three and losing six.
At least one record is likely to look a bit better later on, unless this ends as a draw…
Ed Mackey
Can United keep up strong form vs Chelsea?
(Photo: Getty Images)
Manchester United vs Chelsea has been one of the Premier League’s marquee fixtures for a number of years now.
There have been patches of good form for both sides in the head-to-head record and United are currently in the midst of one of those patches.
They are unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League meetings with Chelsea, a run which dates back to November 2017 consisting of four wins and seven draws.
Ed Mackey
What are your thoughts on English football’s 3pm blackout?
(Photo: Getty Images)
I am personally a big supporter of the 3pm blackout solely for its job of protecting the English football pyramid, a vital cog in the global machine that is the modern Premier League.
But I can understand why some football fans believe it is archaic and has run its course in 2023.
We have written plenty of articles on the 3pm blackout in the last 12 months that you can check out for yourselves:
English football’s 3pm blackout must be protected and maintained, by Michael Cox.
The Premier League’s Saturday 3pm blackout: UK football’s invisible games, by a host of esteemed writers and editors.
Explained: How the 3pm blackout works – and why the Football League wants to scrap it, by The Athletic Staff
Football’s 3pm Saturday blackout: Time to end it or vital to protect the pyramid? by Dan Sheldon
Ed Mackey
ICYMI: Record £6.7bn Premier League TV rights deal announced
(Photo: Getty Images)
There was big news on Monday as the Premier League announced a new record domestic TV rights deal.
In the UK, Sky Sports will show a record number of matches in a new four-year deal starting from the 2025-26 season.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the news was that all matches outside of the traditional 3pm blockout will be broadcast, including those moved to 2pm Sunday slot after a European midweek.
For a comprehensive explainer on the Premier League’s announcement, click below.
GO FURTHER
Explained: The record £6.7bn TV rights deal and what it means for Premier League football
Ed Mackey
FA Cup third round draw: Man Utd vs Wigan & Chelsea vs Preston
(Photo: Getty Images)
An end to the second round of the FA Cup means the big boys went into the hat over the weekend.
Manchester United, finally drawn away from home, have the short trip to League One Wigan Athletic in the new year to look forward to while Chelsea will host Preston North End of the Championship.
The biggest tie of the round, by a considerable distance, is Arsenal vs Liverpool while one of the more eye-catching ones sees rivals Newcastle and Sunderland pitted against each other at the Stadium of Light.
Ed Mackey
But one to remember for a former Chelsea defender
(Photo: Getty Images)
Another big game and another big performance for Tino Livramento.
There were fears that he would be unable to fully recover from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained at Southampton, but he has looked better than ever since signing for Newcastle in the summer.
Injuries and suspensions have left Chelsea without their first-choice full-back pairing pretty much all season, begging the question: Why on earth did they let go of Livramento?
Simon Johnson explains all.
GO FURTHER
How Chelsea allowed Tino Livramento to slip through the net
Ed Mackey
And one to forget for his team-mates
As Alan wrote in his column, Rashford was not the only player on the pitch at St James’ Park that was below the standard expected at Manchester United.
In truth, the majority of Ten Hag’s men were and it only further cranked up the pressure on the Dutchman.
Looking at what Newcastle have become under new ownership and Eddie Howe’s stewardship, Dan Sheldon looked into the glaring differences between them and their visitors — check it out below.
GO FURTHER
Newcastle are everything Manchester United want to be – on and off the field
Ed Mackey
Another evening to forget for Rashford
(Photo: Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford is not enjoying his goalscoring form of last season this time around.
He has just two goals from his first 13 Premier League games of the campaign and was substituted by Ten Hag with half an hour left on Saturday.
The Manchester-born 26-year-old was understandably disgruntled as he took a seat on the bench.
Alan Shearer wrote for The Athletic about how homegrown players are held to a higher standard within a club’s fanbase — read it below.
GO FURTHER
Rashford is finding out that homegrown players are held to a higher standard – rightly or wrongly
Ed Mackey
Pochettino ‘so proud’ of players after Brighton win
Unsurprisingly, Pochettino was very pleased with his players for their performances against a strong Brighton side.
“The team was really good, I feel very proud because Newcastle was tough and then again Brighton is always difficult to play,” he said. “In the first 25 minutes, we scored twice and were controlling the game. We were a little bit flat when we conceded at the end of the first half and then Gallagher was sent off.
“I am so proud of the players and the character they showed. I told them at half time I was happy because it was a great opportunity for us, a massive challenge. We needed to show that we are a team. That is something that for sure will improve us.”
Ed Mackey
Last time out: Chelsea 3-2 Brighton
(Photo: Getty Images)
A day later, Chelsea were celebrating arguably their best win of this season.
In bad form, the home fans travelling to Stamford Bridge would have been expecting the worst against Brighton.
But, even with 10 men for half the game, they prevailed thanks to a pair of goals from Enzo Fernandez and a header that went just over the goal line from Levi Colwill.
Facundo Buonanotte and Joao Pedro threatened to salvage a result for Brighton with two brilliant finishes but Pochettino’s side held on for all three points.
GO FURTHER
Chelsea prove their mettle – but Mauricio Pochettino’s pursuit of true control goes on
Ed Mackey
Ten Hag honest about Newcastle disappointment
(Photo: Getty Images)
There was a refreshing honesty to Ten Hag’s post-match press conference at Newcastle.
“We have to say credit to Newcastle. After the start where we could have scored, they were better than us, they were more proactive,” he said. “We allowed them one goal and, in the end, we fought back and had two good opportunities, but we couldn’t take a point.”
Ed Mackey
Last time out: Newcastle 0-1 Manchester United
(Photo: Getty Images)
Manchester United arrived in Newcastle as the Premier League most in-form team.
After several minutes, it was clear that favourable opposition led to them being first in the form table as they were under pressure from the start.
It took a while for that pressure to tell as Newcastle pushed for the opening goal and Anthony Gordon came up with it within 10 minutes of the second half beginning.
The England Under-21 forward put the finishing touch to a superb passing move and that proved to be the difference between the teams.
Manchester United did have the ball in the back of the net late on when Antony’s effort deflected off Harry Maguire and in, but before accidentally diverting it in, Maguire was in an offside position.
GO FURTHER
The briefing: Newcastle 1 Manchester United 0 – Listless Rashford, flash Gordon and which United can challenge?
Ed Mackey
Today’s action
After a couple of matches to get the midweek schedule started yesterday, there are six Premier League matches to enjoy this evening.
I’m sure plenty of you will be keeping on eye on when Manchester City make the trip to the West Midlands to face Aston Villa.
Elsewhere, Liverpool will be expecting to keep pace at the top on their travels to Sheffield.
Brighton vs Brentford – 7:30pm GMT
Crystal Palace vs Bournemouth – 7:30pm GMT
Fulham vs Nottingham Forest – 7:30pm GMT
Sheffield United vs Liverpool – 7:30pm GMT
Aston Villa vs Manchester City – 8:15pm GMT
Manchester United vs Chelsea – 8:15pm GMT
Ed Mackey
How to watch Manchester United vs Chelsea
If you would like to watch today’s game (while remaining tuned into our live coverage!), here are your options.
UK: Amazon Prime Video
US: Peacock
Canada: FuboTV
Australia: Optus Sport
Ed Mackey
Early Manchester United team news
The issues are hardly as extreme for Manchester United but Erik ten Hag is far from having a full squad to choose from.
His defence is still quite heavily affected, as is his midfield while Jadon Sancho remains frozen out.
Here is the injury list: Casemiro (hamstring), Christian Eriksen (knee), Jonny Evans (hamstring), Tyrell Malacia (knee), Lisandro Martinez (foot), Mason Mount (calf).
Ed Mackey
Other early Chelsea team news
(Photo: Getty Images)
Nkunku is far from the only Chelsea player injured for today’s game.
10 of Pochettino’s players are unavailable to face Manchester United, including Conor Gallagher who is suspended after being sent off for two yellow cards against Brighton on Sunday.
The injured players are: Trevoh Chalobah (hamstring), Ben Chilwell (hamstring), Carney Chukwuemeka (knee) Wesley Fofana (knee), Malo Gusto (knee), Romeo Lavia (ankle), Noni Madueke (unknown), Lesley Ugochukwu (unknown).
Liam Twomey
Chelsea Correspondent
Pochettino urges caution over Nkunku
(Photo: Getty Images)
Chelsea fans are yet to have seen Christopher Nkunku in Premier League action and, while he is closing in on a first appearance, he will have wait a bit longer.
“I hope (he is available) soon, but he’s not involved for tomorrow,” said Pochettino. “It’s like we always tell you – it’s about assessing day by day.
“Sometimes we become excited when we see the player on the pitch and we want to have the player as soon as possible, but we need to be careful. When he is ready, he is going to be in the squad.”
Ed Mackey
What time is kick-off?
You may have noticed that today’s game is being played at a slightly unusual time, the same time as Arsenal’s visit to Luton yesterday.
Kick-off is at 8:15pm for those of us in the UK, while it is 3:15pm on the east coast of the US and 12:15pm on the west coast.
It means team news will come your way at 7:15pm GMT and Mauricio Pochettino has told us about one player who definitely will not be in the team…
Ed Mackey
Live coverage of Manchester United vs Chelsea
Hello and welcome to The Athletic’s live coverage of tonight’s big game: Manchester United vs Chelsea.
Neither team are where they would like to be in the table, but victory today would give them bragging rights over an age-old rival, if nothing else.
So stick with us over the course of the day for all the coverage.
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