Prediction: Chelsea vs Manchester United

4th February 2012

Chelsea and Manchester United have established a genuine rivalry while fighting each other for the Premier League title over the years, and even if the Blues are no longer in the title race, the outcome of this clash could have a big impact on both sides’ ambitions. The Red Devils eased off to a 3-1 victory in the first part of the season, and they will be hoping to triumph at Stamford Bridge as well.

After finally recognizing that their aging squad would not be able to live up to the expectations, Chelsea chiefs have started the rejuvenation process, which is bound to come at a cost. The Blues showed they are thinking about the future by bringing the likes of Andre Villas-Boas, Lucas Piazon, Thibaut Courtois, Oriol Romeu, Juan Mata, Gary Cahill and Romelu Lukaku, but by doing so they have virtually sacrificed this season. Everybody can see that Chelsea’s showings this season are not worthy of a team of their caliber and I certainly won’t be surprised if they eventually miss out on the top 4 finish. With Fernando Torres still looking like a pub player and Didier Drogba away on Africa Cup of Nations, Chelsea scored just three goals in last four games, one of which was own goal by Swansea full-back Neil Taylor. Taking that into consideration as well as the fact that the Blues will be without Ramires, John Terry and Ashley Cole against United, the hosts can be forgiven for not feeling too confident at the moment.

Manchester United have had their share of problems and have been going through a process of squad rebuilding as well, but they succeeded in staying in the title race, once again thanks to the sheer genius of Sir Alex Ferguson. With the squad the Scottish manager currently has at his disposal (no offence intended), I don’t see too many bosses who would keep United fighting for the top 4 finish, let alone stay in contention for the Premier League title. The Red Devils may have been eliminated from the Champions League, Carling Cup and FA Cup, but they are still going strong in the Premiership and that gives them confidence before the clash with Chelsea. Another reason for optimism besides the three-match winning run is the return of Ashley Young, Tom Cleverley, Nani and Wayne Rooney from injury, with the latter back in just the right time to hurt Chelsea’s weakened back line.

Conclusion

While Chelsea are struggling in the scoring department and wondering how they are going to compensate for the absentees, Manchester United are full of confidence after the run of three wins in the Premier League and boosted by the return of Wayne Rooney and Nani. Therefore, backing Manchester United to win at level ball handicap looks like the right thing to do.

Verdict: Manchester United Draw No Bet

Best Odds: 21/20

Bookmaker: bet365