In what is the big-ticket game of the weekend, Chelsea take on a motivated Manchester United at the Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The two teams have had extremely contrasting starts to their seasons. Chelsea are second in the Premier League after picking up 20 points out of a possible 24. United on the other hand, are seven points and six positions below their domestic rivals.
However, the melancholy in the United dressing room has been temporarily dismissed after a spirited comeback from Jose Mourinho’s men which saw them overcome Newcastle 3-2 after being 2-0 down at one point.
The Portuguese boss will be hoping it proves to be the turning point of the season as he visits his former side. We take a look at some of the tactical talking points.
THE MIDFIELD BATTLE AND POGBA
Jose Mourinho has been quite experimental with Paul Pogba’s role so far this season. The Frenchman has played on the left in a 4-3-3 formation and given his fair share of freedom in the final third. He’s also featured in a double pivot alongside Nemanja Matic, a position burdened with defensive responsibilities.
But for both roles, Pogba has dazzled and frustrated in equal measure.
A synergy of Mourinho choosing the best position for the midfielder and the 25-year-old stepping his game up will be key for the Red Devils.
With Matic injured, Marouane Fellaini and Fred are frontrunners for the remaining two slots. Fellaini could play a deeper role initially but could also double up as an option up front in case United end up chasing the game.
Fred’s energy should come of use to Mourinho as he attempts to counter press Chelsea’s midfield and force the play down to the wings. Regardless, Pogba has to be at his best if United are to win the midfield battle against the likes of Jorginho, Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante.
LUKAKU’S BIG GAME
Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku has had a fairly underwhelming season so far.
The Belgium striker is going through a frustrating phase and has found it difficult to get involved in United’s build-up play as well. The 25-year-old won’t have it easy when he travels to his former side, coming up against the likes of Antonio Rudiger and David Luiz who have struck up a decent partnership at the heart of Chelsea’s defence.
He will have to convert the smallest of chances his midfield create. Additionally, Lukaku will be looking to occupy both the central defenders and create shooting opportunities for Anthony Martial who had a good game against Newcastle, but ultimately he must act as a focal point if United are to come away with a win.
HAZARD ON THE WINGS
Eden Hazard
If Mourinho were to shut play through the middle and force it to the wings, there is a possibility he will be playing right into Maurizio Sarri’s hands. A sub-par Antonio Valencia will be up against an in-form Eden Hazard.
The Belgian star will be licking his lips in anticipation as he looks to continue his impressive goalscoring run against a defence which has been shaky, at best, so far this season.
Hazard’s incredible form also opens the possibility of Ander Herrera starting in the midfield to mark the Belgian. It is a tactic Mourinho has used in the past and one would not be surprised if he pulls out that trick again. However, if Hazard decides to bring out his best, there’s nothing much many teams can do to stop him.
THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE
N’Golo Kante
N’Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho have formed a reliable midfield trio for Chelsea.
Sarri has added a new dimension to Kante’s game which has allowed the Frenchman to venture forward with Jorginho pulling strings from deep.
Should the trio manage to assert themselves, Chelsea will fancy their chances. This will open up a plethora of chances for the blues through the middle. Alvaro Morata who finally started scoring after a lean spell will look to finish off the chances created by the midfield.
