Manchester United will play host to Chelsea at Old Trafford this season. Interestingly, both clubs are being managed by former players. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had a Hatrick of wins against Frank Lampard last season, twice in the league and once in the Carabao Cup.
Frank Lampard claimed his first win over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season by having to tweak Chelsea’s formation against the Red Devils in last season Emirates FA Cup semi-finals. Tonight, Frank Lampard will be looking forward to put one past Manchester United and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. However, this will come with a key tactical decisions.
A 3-man Backline
After three straight defeats against Solskjaer, Lampard finally came out on top when they met in the FA Cup semi-finals last season. The Blues took a 3-0 lead at Wembley before United got a consolation from Bruno Fernandes. In that victory, Lampard switched from his famous 4-3-3 setup to a 3-4-3, a formation United have been known with when they play against top oppositions. Lampard opted for a three man in game Chelsea defended well, leaving no space behind the Manchester United’s attack and also gave Chelsea’s wing backs more freedom to attack. Oliver Giroud’s opener was assisted by captain Cesar Azpilicueta who played out as a wing back in the game at Wembley.
A well- Balanced Midfield
The Blues have a lot of options in the middle of the park, however they should be wary of tonight’s opponent, Manchester United have accustomed to setting deep and hitting on the counter attack. A midfield option who can provide a balance between the Chelsea’s defense and the midfield will do a better job tonight. Mason Mount with no doubt is a creative midfielder, although with issues about his best Postion, however, starting Mount today won’t be the best decision from Frank Lampard. A midfield option if Jorginho, Ngolo Kante and Kai Havertz might be what Chelsea need to do the damage. Ngolo Kante has improved moving into the final third and also has advantage of stopping Manchester United from breaking away on counter attack. Jorginho on the other hand, will try and cut Manchester United supply from Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba.
A Fluid Attack
A Hakim Ziyech start this evening might be one of frank Lampard tactical masterplan. The Moroccan has not been able to start a competitive game this season. Ziyech can run at defenders and coming against Alex Telles or Luke Shaw will give Chelsea an advantage, the Manchester United fullbacks will have a busy night and won’t be allowed to join the attack. Frank Lampard will count on Christian Pulisic and Timo Werner as the last two options in the attack to do the damage.