Man United 1-1 Chelsea, Tactical Analysis: Breaking Down Old Trafford stalemate
By Fahd Ahmed
Chelsea’s Settled Possession Structure
When in settled possession, Chelsea utilized their familiar 3-2-5 shape. In response, the home side deployed their 4-2-4 or 4-4-2 shape out of possession. One way the Blues tried to break down this defensive setup was through creativity from wide areas, particularly using their wingers to go 1v1 against the fullbacks or finding seam runs from their midfielders, looking to create chances from deep.
United's 4-4-2 mid-block against Chelsea's 3-2-5 shape had its issues when they tried to jump into a m2m press. Like in the below example, Lavia is found by Colwill (after initially passing to Caicedo) in the middle with Rashford dragged across by Gusto whilst Ugarte is too slow… pic.twitter.com/i2UMFLSlSI
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) November 4, 2024
However, United’s 4-4-2 mid-block had its flaws, especially when they attempted to jump into a man-to-man press. In one instance, Colwill found Lavia in space after a quick combination with Caicedo, which dragged Marcus Rashford out of position and allowed Palmer to receive the ball in dangerous areas. The sequence ultimately led to a chance, with Chelsea winger Pedro Neto delivering a dangerous cross into the penalty area.
Exploiting High Lines and Transitions
United, too, had moments where they looked to exploit Chelsea’s high defensive line. Højlund’s pace in behind, combined with Fernandes’ exceptional long-range passing, created opportunities for the Reds to launch quick counter-attacks. United’s wide players, Alejandro Garnacho and Rashford, were also key in carrying the ball forward, with van Nistelrooy clearly intent on maximizing their ability to hurt Chelsea in transition.
Due to Chelsea's m2m approach and the adoption of a high line, United weren't hesitant to tap into Hojlund's pace in-behind the defensive line. Fernandes is also an adept long range passer who can cut through defences with a piercing long pass. (Img 1)
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) November 4, 2024
With adept ball carriers… pic.twitter.com/n3XZuSiwjl
The Blues' high-pressing approach was not without its own risks, especially when Manchester United transitioned from defense to attack via long balls. This became a recurring theme throughout the game, with the Reds willing to bypass Chelsea’s midfield and go direct.