Having lost 3-1 at the hands of Bayern Munich in midweek, Chelsea will be keen to get back on the winning track as soon as possible. Their next test is a trip away to Old Trafford, a ground where they have struggled to get results in recent times despite the lean years that Manchester United have faced since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson.
So, Chelsea will know the need to bring thei A-game, despite Manchester United's struggles in recent times. As for Ruben Amorim, this is a must-not-lose game. One has to imagine that the Portuguese manager is on the brink of being shown the exit door after how things have turned out for his side in recent times.
Despite their struggles, Manchester United do have the ability to step up to the plate in big games. That is why they continued winning silverware under the management of Erik ten Hag. And Chelsea must be wary.
But going into the game, Chelsea have been told that they can completely outplay Manchester United if they field their best team, which includes Estevao. Paul Merson wrote in his match preview for Sportskeeda:
"They must play Estevao, let him off the leash. He has already proved that he can play at this level and he will enjoy a lot of space in this game.
So I'd go Neto, Palmer and Estevao behind Pedro. But I doubt Maresca will do the same! He may opt to go safe instead. What the Chelsea coach must understand is that they have the better squad and can rip Manchester United into shreds if they play their best team."
Chelsea told how they can 'rip Manchester United into shreds'
Estevao has arrived this summer. And while most would have expected the Brazilian to take some time to adjust to the Premier League, he has not looked out of place at all.
Even against Bayern Munich, he came on late and looked confident. He is a special talent for sure and one who deserves a bit more trust from Enzo Maresca.
Jamie Gittens looks completely lost at the moment and starting him should not even cross Maresca's mind. Interestingly, it has been hinted that Alejandro Garnacho could start against his former side in what would be a brilliant storyline going into the matchup, especially after how his stint at Old Trafford ended under the management of Amorim.