Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has shared his prediction for the upcoming Manchester United vs. Chelsea game at Old Trafford this Sunday.
Ruud van Nistelrooy will manage United for the second time as interim coach following a 5-2 victory over Leicester City on Wednesday, which secured United’s spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
After Erik ten Hag’s departure on Monday, United has been working toward appointing Ruben Amorim, the Sporting Lisbon coach, as their new manager…Continue Reading
Amorim’s arrival is anticipated after the November international break, meaning Van Nistelrooy will stay on as caretaker manager for the next few matches.
In the meantime, Van Nistelrooy is preparing United to face Chelsea this weekend.
Merson believes Van Nistelrooy has limited time to make an impact, and predicts United will struggle, suggesting Chelsea will exploit United’s “lazy” pressing game.
He 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.”
Merson has predicted a 3-1 victory for Chelsea.
Currently sitting in 14th place, United are already trailing in the Premier League standings—a tough beginning to the season. Dropping points now would allow rivals to widen the gap.
Chelsea, hoping to capitalize on United’s managerial uncertainty, have had an inconsistent season themselves.
They were eliminated from the Carabao Cup this week, following a fourth-round loss to Newcastle.
