Chelsea are facing a major test for the possibility of retaining the Premier League title as the defending champions host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The game promises to be a tight affair with Jose Mourinho keen to avoid a defeat like last season, when United lost 4-0. This time around, Chelsea are the most likely candidates to suffer a defeat – despite playing at home. Antonio Conte was able to get the Premier League title in his first season at the club, as the team were almost imperious while playing with a three at the back formation. However, Chelsea are already nine points behind Manchester City after only 10 games into the season.
Another defeat would be catastrophic and the Chelsea cannot afford to drop any more points behind the City. The club’s confidence has been shaken to the core after a 3-0 loss against the Roma in the Champions League. The defence of the blues came in for a lot of praise last season, but they have been a shadow of their former self this season. Conte appears to be struggling to get his team in the best possible shape while having to contend with two games per week.
Jose Mourinho is having no such troubles as he has been able to keep his United team in top shape and he has been rewarded with excellent results so far this season. United have also been able to get plenty of success in the Champions League.
The strong squad has been quite solid defensively. Mourinho often tends to approach the big matches with an idea of avoiding defeat and this is unlikely to differ for this match. However, United have the personnel to be able to spring counter-attacks if necessary. United are the better team in terms of form, squad strength, and confidence at this moment. They are the likely candidates to win.