Chelsea vs Manchester United - 5 key battles to watch | Premier League 2021-22

Chelsea face United in a blockbuster clash
Chelsea face United in a blockbuster clash

#3 Mason Mount (Chelsea) vs Scott McTominay (Manchester United)

Mount has had a fantastic year with Chelsea
Mount has had a fantastic year with Chelsea

Mason Mount's meteoric rise with club and country is well-documented. The England international has come of age for his movements, passing, shooting and deft footwork.

All three of his league goals this season have come as part of a hat-trick against Norwich City. It was his first hat-trick in the top-flight and he was just the 20th player to register the feat for the Blues. It showed how dangerous he can be on his day.

Scott McTominay will have to be wary of giving him too much time and space on the ball as Mount can seriously hurt United.

The Scotsman hasn't had the best season thus far, looking off the pace, giving the ball away and easily beaten by his markers. These weaknesses could prove costly again on Sunday.


#2 Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) vs Jorginho (Chelsea)

Fernandes has nine assists this season already!
Fernandes has nine assists this season already!

No player in the league has created as many chances as Bruno Fernandes. His playmaking brilliance has given the likes of Ronaldo a platform to score a glut of goals from.

He offers the energy, invention, flair and goals. Fernandes has struck four league goals this season from midfield that few others in his position are capable of.

The former Sporting CP star's long-range shooting and ability to pick out a pass is something Jorginho will have to deal with. However, the Italian is no slouch either.

He's been in fine form for Chelsea this season, making excellent ball recoveries, timely interceptions and displaying his range of passing.

The winner of this duel will have a huge say in the game's outcome.


#1 Reece James (Chelsea) vs Alex Telles (Manchester United)

James is currently in the form of his life
James is currently in the form of his life

Reece James is without a doubt the most in-form Chelsea player right now. He has contributed the most league goals in the squad with eight despite only being a right-back!

He's evolved massively under Thomas Tuchel, using his speed and explosive energy down the flanks. He possesses a huge threat going forward, whilst possessing an exquisite crossing ability.

His movements will require the utmost attention from Alex Telles. He's likely to start at left-back ahead of Luke Shaw, who's an injury doubt for the clash.

The Brazilian hasn't started a single game in the league this season. But his performances in Europe have been promising, although James will pose his toughest examination yet.

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