Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca faces a key player absence as Chelsea heads to Old Trafford on Sunday for a much-anticipated match, with Manchester United dominating recent headlines.
United made waves this week by parting ways with manager Erik ten Hag on Monday, swiftly appointing Ruben Amorim as his successor on Friday. However, Amorim won’t be on the sidelines just yet; he’s set to officially take charge after the November international break. In the meantime, Ruud van Nistelrooy has stepped in as interim manager and confirmed he’ll return to his assistant role once his caretaker duties conclude. His first match in charge saw United secure an impressive 5-2 win over Leicester City in the Carabao Cup.
Chelsea, meanwhile, wrapped up their League Cup run this week, falling 2-0 to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. Maresca will be eager for a strong response from his squad, although he will have nearly his entire roster available, with the exception of Jadon Sancho. Sancho, currently ineligible to face his parent club, is also sidelined due to illness, per Maresca’s update.
In contrast, Manchester United is contending with several injury concerns. Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, Toby Collyer, and Antony are all out, facing long recovery times that may sideline them until next year. Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo, who sustained injuries in the match against Aston Villa before October’s international break, could be nearing a return against Chelsea, although they missed United’s previous game against Leicester. Christian Eriksen also sat out Wednesday’s match with an undisclosed issue, which United hopes won’t prove serious given his strong start to the season.
Long-term absentee Tyrell Malacia may also be eyeing a return for this fixture, although his absence since last season makes it unlikely. Former Chelsea star Mason Mount continues to deal with a head injury, leaving his availability in question, with his last game dating back to late September.
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