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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Dan Brown

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Raheem Sterling to start - Chelsea predicted line-up for Manchester United clash

Manchester United take on Chelsea in the Premier League this weekend, with Erik ten Hag's side looking to record their second win on the bounce after the victory in midweek.

The Reds secured a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night, with Fred and Bruno Fernandes both getting on the scoresheet against the London outfit. While Cristiano Ronaldo stole the headlines with his tunnel antics, United were worthy winners against Spurs and dominated proceedings.

Ten Hag's side currently find themselves fifth in the Premier League table - one point behind their opponents on Saturday, Chelsea. It will be a tough test at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues impressing under Graham Potter in recent weeks.

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Chelsea sacked Thomas Tuchel in September after somewhat of a disappointing start to the campaign, replacing the German coach with Brighton boss Potter. The decision to dismiss the 49-year-old came after the London outfit spent £255.3m in the summer transfer window, bringing in eight new players.

The Blues drew 0-0 with Brentford last weekend, but have recorded five successive clean sheets in all competitions. They have recorded victories over Crystal Palace, AC Milan, Wolves and Aston Villa in recent weeks.

Kepa Arrizabalaga is likely to start in goal against United on Saturday, with the Spaniard performing well under Potter since the English coach arrived at Stamford Bridge. Edouard Mendy, who was first-choice under Tuchel, has only made six appearances so far this term.

Summer signing Wesley Fofana is currently sidelined with an injury, which means that the Blues are likely to go with a back three of Kalidou Koulibaly, Thiago Silva - who was rested against Brentford - and Trevoh Chalobah. Potter's side have looked solid in defence in the past month, and United will have to work extremely hard to break them down.

With Reece James currently out injured, Chelsea have been utilising Ruben Loftus-Cheek in a right-wing-back role. The 26-year-old is likely to start in that role against the Reds, but there is certainly a chance that Potter opts for Cesar Azpilicueta instead. Ben Chilwell could receive the nod ahead of Marc Cucurella on the left, while injuries in the centre of the park should see Mateo Kovacic partner Jorginho.

The Blues have a number of attacking threats, all of whom will be desperate to play against United. Armando Broja started up front against the Bees, but Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to return to the starting line-up this weekend. On the flanks, former Manchester City man Raheem Sterling is bound to start, while Mason Mount - who has looked rejuvenated under Potter - is likely to play from the left.

Predicted Chelsea team vs United: Kepa Arrizabalaga; Kalidou Koulibaly, Thiago Silva, Trevoh Chalobah; Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho, Ben Chilwell; Raheem Sterling, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mason Mount

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