Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy will be in temporary charge as the team takes on Chelsea in a Premier League showdown this weekend.Van Nistelrooy, stepping in after Erik ten Hag’s sudden dismissal, led United to an exhilarating Carabao Cup win over Leicester City midweek.
Van Nistelrooy will guide United for the next three games before Ruben Amorim takes over following the November international break.Unfortunately, injuries continue to challenge United. Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire are both out, nursing thigh and knee injuries respectively.
While left-back Luke Shaw’s recovery has hit another roadblock, with Erik ten Hag revealing that Shaw’s progress “is not going as we expected.” Shaw has been sidelined since February, and with Tyrell Malacia still working towards full fitness, United will likely have to improvise without a traditional left-back.
Meanwhile, Antony’s availability remains uncertain after being stretchered off last week against Fenerbahce due to an ankle sprain. Promising youngster Leny Yoro is making strides in training, aiming for a return in November.
Chelsea heads to Old Trafford with a much healthier squad. Jadon Sancho will sit this one out due to loan restrictions, though his recent benchings suggest he may not have started even if eligible. Pedro Neto, having joined Chelsea’s attack last week and impressing with an assist, is expected to hold his place in the starting lineup.
Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, rotated heavily for their Carabao Cup clash with Newcastle, a match where 11 first-team regulars were rested. After missing a year with a serious knee injury, Wesley Fofana remains a point of concern with recurring knee issues, but he’s anticipated to start.
Here’s a look at the likely starting lineups as both teams aim to make a statement:
Manchester United (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Onana
Defense: Mazraoui, de Ligt, Martinez, Dalot
Midfield: Ugarte, Casemiro
Attack: Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund
Chelsea (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Sanchez
Defense: Gusto, Fofana, Colwill, James
Midfield: Caicedo, Lavia
Attack: Madueke, Palmer, Neto, Jackson
The clash between Manchester United and Chelsea kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd, at 4:30 PM. Catch live coverage on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming available via the Sky Go app and NOW TV.