*Match preview and betting tips provided by SVB Tips
Chelsea: Unbeaten at Stamford Bridge in 2025
The Blues are determined to avoid a draw — despite this being the Premier League fixture with the most stalemates in history (27). With just two matches remaining, Chelsea must win both to ensure a top-five finish and a Champions League spot. They currently sit 5th, level on points with Aston Villa, and just one ahead of Nottingham Forest.
A key stat? Chelsea haven’t lost their final home game of a Premier League season since 2002 (1-3 vs Aston Villa), since when they can boast 15 wins and 7 draws.
Despite their recent 0-2 setback at Newcastle that ended a six-game unbeaten run in the league and five consecutive wins in all competitions, Chelsea remain formidable at home. They are unbeaten at Stamford Bridge in the league this calendar year — the team with the most points and fewest goals conceded (7) at home in 2025.
Cole Palmer has not been in prolific form lately, but is expected to pose a major threat, having already scored four goals in three matches against United.
However, Chelsea will be without Nicolas Jackson (suspended), and long-term absentees Christopher Nkunku, Marc Guiu, Wesley Fofana, and Omari Kellyman.
Manchester United: All Eyes on the Europa League Final
While Chelsea have two games to seal Champions League qualification, Manchester United have just one — the Europa League final against Tottenham next Wednesday. A win there secures their spot in Europe’s top competition to potentially bring in over €100 million in revenue.
As a result, United are expected to rest several first-team players on Friday. They sit a disappointing 16th in the league, with just 10 wins and 17 losses this season.
Interestingly, United have won their final away match in four of the last five seasons. However, they haven’t won any of their last seven games played in London to close out a league campaign.
They are also winless in their last seven Premier League matches, their last victory coming in March — a 3-0 win over Leicester.
Head-to-Head & Key Facts
- Chelsea have won just one of their last 14 league meetings with Manchester United. Eight of those ended in draws.
- The reverse fixture finished 1-1 — the fourth 1-1 draw in the last seven meetings.
- Both teams have scored (BTTS) in the last seven head-to-head matches.
- This is only the second time the two sides meet on a Friday — the first was in August 2002 (2-2).
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, George; Neto
Man United: Bayindir; Fredricson, Lindelof, Shaw; Kamason, Eriksen, Ugarte, Amass; Mainoo, Garnacho, Obi
Betting Picks
- 1. Chelsea to Win & Over 2.5 Goals: United’s defence has been leaky, especially away, and Chelsea are pushing hard for Champions League. This combination boosts odds significantly over a straight win.
- 2. Chelsea to Win Both Halves (Big odds, risky bet): If United field a weakened side, Chelsea may dominate early and often.
- 3. Correct Score: 2-1 or 3-1 Chelsea: Both teams tend to score in recent meetings, and Chelsea’s attack has been sharp at home.
- 4. Cole Palmer – First Goalscorer: Given his prowess with penalties and free kicks, this market usually offers solid odds.
- 5. BTTS + Chelsea Win: This hybrid bet combines the BTTS trend and Chelsea’s home advantage.
- 6. Chelsea -1 Handicap: If United’s rotation is significant, this line becomes valuable.