Chris Sutton names 'superior team' ahead of Man United vs Chelsea clash but airs defensive warning

Manchester United have officially entered a new chapter following their announcement of new manager Rúben Amorim. Following much speculation, the deal has been announced, with the club confirming the Sporting CP boss will arrive at Old Trafford ‘once he has fulfilled his obligations to his current club’.

Erik ten Hag was dismissed from his role after a sticky start to the 2024/25 season. United are currently way down the table in 14th with just 11 points in the bank from three wins, two draws and four defeats. The poor start to the campaign came after United recorded their worst ever Premier League season finish under the Dutchman.

With Amorim’s arrival pending, there is a lot of positivity surrounding United as they approach the end of the year and the January transfer window. If they are to delve into the new year market, the Red Devils need to get some positive results under their belt.

Last time out, United lost 2-1 to West Ham but they have since enjoyed a thrilling 5-2 win over Leicester City in the Carabao Cup, which could boost spirits heading into this weekend’s clash. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy will oversee his side’s clash against Chelsea, who are currently hovering just outside the top four.

BBC Sport’s football expert Chris Sutton has given his thoughts on how the Old Trafford match will play out. Discussing the appointment of Amorim, the win over Leicester and Chelsea’s recent form, he penned his prediction in his latest column.

“I don't think United are suddenly going to hit a run of form now Erik ten Hag has been sacked. It's more the case that Leicester game was the kind of initial bounce that we see all the time when a manager leaves. Maybe they will go again here, but for me there are more things pointing towards a Chelsea win.

“It looks like Rúben Amorim will be the new Manchester United manager but will not be arriving for a few weeks. In the meantime, Ruud van Nistelrooy is in charge as interim boss and he enjoyed himself against Leicester in the Carabao Cup in midweek.

“The Chelsea players will be well-rested because their team that lost to Newcastle in the same competition on Wednesday was totally different to the side that beat the Magpies in the league on Sunday. But Newcastle did create chances against them last weekend and, when I saw Chelsea against Liverpool recently, they were brave at Anfield too.

“I see Chelsea as being the superior team here and my head tells me they will win, but if they are quite open again at Old Trafford then that could suit Manchester United and let them get something.”

Chelsea will enter the match after a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the Cup, but they did beat the Magpies in their Premier League clash prior to that. The Blues have lost just two games so far and boast the threat of Cole Palmer in their attack, who has notched seven goals and five assists in the Premier League so far this season.