2026-2027 Premier League: Chelsea vs. Manchester United, Probable Lineups

On Saturday at 1:30 p.m., Chelsea will host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in a match for Matchday 9 of the Premier League. The home team is looking to win after suffering two consecutive losses (against Tottenham in the league and against Liverpool in the League Cup), while the visitors cannot afford another slip-up.

Xabi Alonso will have to deal with several absences: in addition to the long-term injured Dibu Martinez, he won’t be able to count on Lacroix, Hato, James, Gittens, or Anselmino either. Penders will therefore be in goal, with Acheampong, Fofana, and Colwill in front of him. Pedro Neto will play slightly deeper than usual, with Palestra on the opposite wing.

Veterans Henderson and Caicedo will anchor the midfield, while Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, playing further forward, will be tasked with feeding Welbeck. The veteran striker, who joined Chelsea this summer, has yet to find the back of the net in the league but has scored three times in three EFL Cup matches.

For Michael Carrick, every game is crucial: Manchester United is facing yet another crisis in recent years, and their results have been absolutely dismal. Despite a highly respectable roster, the Red Devils have collected only 7 points in their first 8 league games, and it will take a miracle to save Carrick’s job.

Dorgu, Sesko, Shaw, and Ugarte will miss the match against Chelsea. Mainoo should be fit to play, but Rashford’s status is in doubt. Playing in front of Lammens will be Dalot, Maguire, Martínez, and Mazraoui. Mainoo and Baleba will anchor the midfield, with Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, and Cunha playing further forward. Mbeumo will lead the attack.

Probable Lineups
CHELSEA (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Fofana, Colwill; Neto, Henderson, Caicedo, Palestra; Palmer, Rogers; Welbeck. Head Coach: Alonso
MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martínez, Mazraoui; Mainoo, Baleba; Amad, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo. Head Coach: Carrick