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The Premier League is back with another terrific encounter as league leaders Chelsea host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge this weekend. This is surely one of the most highly anticipated fixtures in the Premier League and another mouthwatering clash is surely on the cards.
Manchester United are in eighth place in the Premier League, with just 17 points from 12 matches. They have endured four defeats in their last five league matches - their latest humiliation against Watford saw Ole Gunnar Solskjaer get the sack.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are a force to be reckoned with and stay at the top of the Premier League table with 29 points. Under Thomas Tuchel's guidance, the Blues are the team to beat this campaign.
In stark contrast to United's form, Chelsea have won four of their last five league games and have tasted defeat just once in the Premier League. The Blues are proving to be unstoppable at the moment whereas the Red Devils are struggling to find form in the English top flight.
On that note, let's take a look at
Chelsea vs Manchester United predictions
#5 Marcos Alonso to start the game
Marcos Alonso has rejuvenated himself under Thomas Tuchel's tutelage and has been instrumental for Chelsea in the wing-back position. However, the rise of Ben Chilwell has decreased the Spaniard's minutes on the pitch. Alonso, who has fallen down the pecking order, might find himself in the starting line-up against United.
Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell suffered a horrible injury which could keep him on the sidelines for months. There are concerns that the injury might be an ACL injury, which could take Chilwell numerous months to recover from. This might lead to Alonso taking up Chilwell's spot in the first team.
With Chilwell out injured, Tuchel is likely to rely again on the veteran on Sunday.
#4 Manchester United's poor defense a huge concern
Manchester United have endured a poor start to their campaign. Despite the arrival of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho, the Red Devils have yet to show improvement in any aspect of the game.
United's defense, led by Harry Maguire, have conceded the highest number of goals (21) among the top ten teams in the Premier League. The Red Devils' defense looks far from organized and their latest 4-1 defeat against Watford is a testament to the fact.
Manchester United's poor defense will only be good news for Chelsea, who have pacy wingers and forwards upfront.
#3 Chelsea to win the midfield battle
Chelsea are extremely strong in all three departments - attack, midfield and defense. The Blues have shown their immense caliber while dispatching teams ruthlessly so far this campaign. Their huge 4-0 win against Italian giants Juventus is another testament to their dominance and might.
Chelsea midfielders played a significant role in their UEFA Champions League triumph last campaign. Thomas Tuchel has made the midfield into a well oiled machine, functioning as a perfect, cohesive unit against opponents.
Despite the absence of N'Golo Kante, the Blues possess a strong set of midfielders in their ranks.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are suffering severely following the absence of Paul Pogba. Bruno Fernandes is likely to start but their three-man midfield will not be enough to counter the opposition. The presence of wing-backs also adds more firepower to Chelsea, who will likely win the midfield battle on Sunday.
#2 Cristiano Ronaldo to endure another frustrating night vs Chelsea
Cristiano Ronaldo has been going through a mixed run of form. While the Portuguese icon has been sensational in the Champions League, he has been quiet against tougher opponents in the Premier League.
Ronaldo has racked up six goals in five Champions League appearances this campaign. The 36-year old is yet to dominate the stage in the Premier League with just four goals and two assists in nine matches.
Chelsea are known for their defensive structure and boast one of the best defenses across Europe. The Blues have conceded just four goals in the Premier League so far, with a system of two wing-backs aiding their three-man defensive line.
It is likely that Chelsea's five defenders will not let Ronaldo get much space and keep him quiet throughout the encounter.
#1 Chelsea to grab all three points at home
Following their Champions League glory last campaign, Chelsea have carried their exceptional form into the current season. Thomas Tuchel's men are in a league of their own and have shown tremendous character to stay at the top of the Premier League table.
Manchester United's current conditions are just the opposite, as they are struggling to even get three points. They have endured a poor run of fixtures and their confidence is not showing. The Red Devils will need to step up a lot to earn a point from the league leaders at Stamford Bridge.
Our prediction is that Chelsea will soar to victory in their own home as they are a far better team at the moment.
