Premier League: Amorim Must Turn Progress Into Wins Fast

Manchester United vs Chelsea

The noise surrounding Old Trafford has been deafening in the last few days, as Manchester United are off to an uneven start in the 2025-26 Premier League campaign. The Red Devils are entrenched in 14th in the English top-flight table, and head coach Ruben Amorim is on the hot seat again.

After losing 1-0 to Arsenal and drawing 1-1 to Fulham, Manchester United won 3-2 against Burnley in dramatic fashion before the international break. However, they were brought back down to Earth by Manchester City last weekend at the Etihad (3-0).

And it will continue to get tougher for the Red Devils, as they’ll host Chelsea this Saturday evening. Enzo Maresca’s Blues are among the undefeated teams in the league with two wins and two draws for eight points.

Chelsea are fresh from a 3-1 loss against Bayern Munich in the Champions League yesterday, so they are out to vent their ire at Old Trafford.

 

Talking Points

Manchester United must address the elephant in the room

Contrary to popular belief, Manchester United have been one of the most dangerous teams in the final third this season, despite the lack of goals. In the first four games this term, the Red Devils posted an 8.29 xG, 36 total shots, 22 shots on target inside the box, and 128 touches in the opposition box. 

This offseason, Manchester United acquired Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. However, the three have yet to start together, as Cunha recently picked up an injury while the club has been easing Sesko into the English top-flight. Mbeumo is easily the biggest threat against Chelsea, as he has been involved in six Premier League goals against them.

However, the same can’t be said in midfield and at the goalkeeper position. Amorim has been playing Bruno Fernandes in a deep-lying role, which compromises his creativity, and he can’t seem to find enough minutes for Kobbie Mainoo, who was a bright spot against Manchester City. Meanwhile, Altay Bayindir has been awful between the sticks, and Andre Onana has gone to Turkey.

With that said, Amorim will continue to stick with his oft-maligned 3-4-3 formation, despite growing clamour from the fans to scrap it. However, he may force INEOS’ hand one way or another if the results don’t come fast.

 

Palmer back at his best for Chelsea

After sitting out against West Ham United and Fulham, Cole Palmer returned and scored for the Blues against Brentford and Bayern Munich. He was the lone bright spot yesterday against the Bundesliga champions, as he almost bagged a brace in the 3-1 defeat in his 100th appearance for the club.

This is admirable for the 23-year-old, as he continues to play through pain. Palmer has dealt with a groin injury since their opening day draw against Crystal Palace, so he is questionable to start against Manchester United.

Besides Palmer, Enzo Maresca would need more production from Joao Pedro, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, and Jamie Gittens. Alejandro Garnacho could be a wildcard since he’ll meet his former squad.

 

History

Manchester United vs. Chelsea is the most drawn fixture in Premier League history, finishing level 27 times.

The Red Devils are undefeated in their last 12 Premier League home games against Chelsea (W5, D7) since a 1-0 loss in May 2013. Chelsea’s win rate of 18-per cent at Old Trafford in the Premier League is their lowest away to any side they have visited at least 10 times in the competition. Manchester United have also won two of their last three home Premier League matches (L1), as many as in their previous 11 at Old Trafford combined (W2, D2, L7).

Chelsea plan to win their second consecutive Premier League match against Manchester United for the first time since winning three straight from November 2009 to March 2011 under Carlo Ancelotti. The Blues won 1-0 in their most recent matchup last May.

 

Betting Tip

The Premier League 2025 odds expect another close encounter between Manchester United and Chelsea, so much so that we wouldn’t be surprised if this is another draw. Despite being at home, the Red Devils are at a disadvantage at 2.61, whereas Chelsea have the slight edge at 2.33 in the 1X2 market.

Besides our recommended bet, SBOTOP bettors can expect their usual dose of Premier League 2025 highlights this Saturday night, making alternatives like Over 2.75 at 1.73 and Total Goals 2-3 at 2.12 viable to add to the parlay. Moreover, a Correct Score of 1-1 – the result of this exact fixture last season – could yield a robust payday of 6.80 on your bet.

   

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