The Premier League will have its most decisive weekend, starting with Chelsea hosting Manchester United in a Champions League qualifier. They have two teams to play for heading into this clash, both of whom they beat last weekend.
United were stunned at home by Leeds and Lisandro Martinez’s red card for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair caused Michael Carrick major headaches at centre-back. Matthijs de Ligt and possibly Harry Maguire are still sidelined and Carrick only has one senior centre-half at his disposal. Maguire, who was sent off against Bournemouth before the international break, served the first game of his ban against Leeds but his protests against the fourth official are likely to extend his ban. At the time of writing, Carrick are preparing as if Maguire is unavailable.
On the plus side, Bryan Mbeumo featured against Leeds and Diogo Dalot could return to fitness. Kobbie Mainoo was a big mistake and his partnership with Casemiro proved crucial under the interim manager. There is hope that he could return for this important game. Manuel Ugarte started against Leeds but has struggled for form all season. There are also whispers that Mason Mount could be in contention if Mainoo is not fit and could potentially partner Casemiro in midfield.
Carrick may opt to start Benjamin eko up front, which would push Mbeuma to the right. However, if Amad Diallo starts, HE could drop to the bench with Mbeum in charge. Matheus Cunha and Bruno Fernandes will almost certainly operate just behind the striker, both in good form at the moment. Youngsters Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro have earned Carrick’s trust and could start in front of goalkeeper Senn Lammens.
United are currently seven points clear of Chelsea in the fight for promotion to the Champions League. Meanwhile, the Blues have lost four of their last five games, putting their top six finish under serious threat.
ENZO RETURN TO CHELSEA?
Enzo Fernandez suspended by Rosenior for his comments about Real Madrid (Screengrab from X)
Liam Rosenior is expected to stick with his back line of Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Jorrel Hato and Marc Cucurella. Enzo Fernndez will return and Rosenior has privately admitted that his omission against Manchester City may have contributed to that defeat.
Rosenior is under increasing pressure following Chelsea’s exit from the Champions League – an 8-2 aggregate loss to PSG – and three consecutive Premier League defeats to Everton, Newcastle and City.
Despite this, Chelsea remain sixth, although they are now four points behind Liverpool. With Brentford, Everton, Brighton and Sunderland looming, the pressure is mounting. Estevo Willian will make his first Premier League appearance since early February, joining an attack that includes Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto and Joo Pedro. Liam Delap could feature late on, although he has yet to make a strong impression since arriving from Ipswich.
WHEN AND WHERE TO WATCH
The match will be played on Sunday, April 19 at 12:30 PM IST. The game will be telecast on Star Sports Network and can be streamed live on Jio Hotstar in India
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Published on:
18 Apr 2026 19:56 IST
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