Nothing would be more “you really can’t make this stuff up” or “the story just writes itself” than Chelsea being the very opponent that leads to Manchester United sacking Manager Louis van Gaal and then replacing him with Jose Mourinho. Just days after the Blues sacked Mourinho to boot. Totally nuts!
Here’s what the bookmakers and statistical projections are saying about the chances of that happening later today.
ESPN FC Soccer Power Index chances Paddy Power Odds
Manchester United win 43% 6-4
Draw 30% 11-5
Chelsea win 27% 2-1
United have beefed up security around Manager Louis van Gaal. They have to, given all the backlash surrounding his regime and the threats that have been made against him. It might also be his last match as Manager. If United lose, it almost certainly will be the last hurrah for the Dutchman. He even told reporters yesterday “I can also quit by myself,” following yesterday’s 2-0 embarrassment at Stoke City.
With that all said, here is the link to our Man United starting XI prediction versus Chelsea.
Some comments that Van Gaal made after the match indicate that he’s indeed lost the dressing room. If that’s true, then the end of his regime is not a question of if, but when. It’s astounding how it all went so far south, so rapidly.
Note: Chelsea will be without Diego Costa for this one because of a match ban.
Prediction: Chelsea 0, Manchester United 0
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and sometimes writes The Sports Bank.net, which is partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. The website is also featured on News Now.
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