Man United Starting XI vs Chelsea: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineups | OneFootball

Man United vs Chelsea: Predicted Lineup, Team News and Key Decisions

When Manchester United host Chelsea at Old Trafford today, it is not just another early-season fixture. Both clubs are in their second campaign under new management, with Ruben Amorim shaping United and Enzo Maresca guiding Chelsea. The tactical duel adds another layer of intrigue to a match that always carries weight in the Premier League.

Midfield dilemma for Amorim

United’s midfield balance has been under scrutiny in recent weeks. Manuel Ugarte has struggled for rhythm, which opens the door for 20-year-old Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim acknowledged the youngster’s promise, while stressing that development is still required.

“Speaking ahead of that match, Amorim said he thought Mainoo needed to improve in some areas, but added that he believed in the midfielder’s potential.”

Mainoo’s cameo against Manchester City brought energy and urgency to United’s play. His mobility gave United a foothold late on, and supporters will hope Amorim rewards that impact with a starting berth against Chelsea.

Attacking spotlight on Sesko

Benjamin Sesko endured a frustrating outing in the derby, failing to find the net in what was only his second start since joining the club. Amorim is expected to persist with the striker, who is still chasing his first goal in United colours. Given the stage and the opponent, there could hardly be a better moment for Sesko to make his mark.

Behind him, Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo are likely to provide support, while Bruno Fernandes will be tasked with knitting the attacking moves together from midfield. Amorim’s choice of personnel in wide areas may prove pivotal, as Chelsea have looked more compact under Maresca this season.

Chelsea’s approach under Maresca

While much of the focus will fall on United’s selection, Chelsea arrive in Manchester with growing confidence. Maresca’s philosophy has started to take hold, with a stronger defensive shape and greater control in possession. Chelsea’s ability to dictate tempo has improved markedly since last season, and United will be wary of conceding ground in midfield.

Maresca has rotated carefully to keep his squad fresh, and the expectation is that Chelsea will field a side capable of competing both physically and technically. With players adapting more seamlessly to his methods in year two, Chelsea’s visit to Old Trafford offers a genuine test of United’s progress under Amorim.

Predicted United lineup

United have received a fitness boost with Matheus Cunha returning to training, although he may only make the bench. Long-term absentees include Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martinez.

Predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Lammens, Maguire, De Ligt, Yoro, Dorgu, Fernandes, Mainoo, Mazraoui, Amad, Mbeumo, Sesko.

Kick-off is scheduled for 5.30pm BST, with live coverage on Sky Sports.