The anticipation for 4pm on Sunday is rapidly building and there is only one thought on football fans’ mind. How will Mourinho fare in his first appearance against Chelsea since being sacked last year? During his career, he has faced Chelsea with Inter Milan and was able to inspire a sensational victory at Stamford Bridge. However, with him now leading the red half of Manchester, it will be fascinating to see how the Chelsea faithful react to him. More importantly, the tactics the Portuguese will employ could dictate how the match will fare. If he decides to implement his vintage style, Antonio Conte will have some serious work to do in order to get the three points.
Conte needs a sparkling performance
Despite last week’s victory over the defending champions, it would be an understatement to say that Chelsea have failed to light the league alight. Conte’s arrival in the summer was expected to bring back the glory days to south west London. His antics on the touchline at Euro 2016 became infectious with fans all around the world, with his team being extremely unlucky against Germany in the quarter finals. The season started well, with results showing real signs of progression from a dreadful last season. Yet, with losses against two major rivals in the form of Liverpool and Arsenal, questions are being asked of the Italian. With his experience, Antonio will know all too well that it only takes one performance to get the fans and pundits on side.
Like he did against Spain in the summer, he will hope his Chelsea side can overpower Manchester United on Sunday.
Does Mourinho know his best side?
Looking at how José has fared since taking over the reigns at Old Trafford, people know realise how difficult a job it is to be Manchester United manager. Even with his pedigree across Europe, Mourinho has struggled to stamp his authority on the side.
A big part of that seems to be the Special One not knowing who should be in his starting team. In spite of having made quality signings over the summer, incorporating them all into a system has been a huge challenge. The enigma of Paul Pogba is still an issue that needs to be solved. The Old Trafford faithful are calling for Michael Carrick to be reinstated, with his experience and calmness oozing class on the pitch.
If there is an answer to the Pogba dilemma, it is sure that José will know first. The fans will hope for a quick solution, which will reap immediate dividends in the form of results.
Tactical battle will be key to the match
Both managers will be hoping that the tactics discussed during the week with their teams will be adhered to come 4pm on Sunday. As to what those tactics will be, us fans will only find out during the game. If Mourinho opts for a similar style to the way United played against Liverpool, Conte will have to do something that Jürgen Klopp couldn’t. His philosophy throughout his career has been to play direct through the wings and with Hazard at his disposal, he has arguably the most talented footballer in the Premier League.
The game will depend on small margins due to its importance, with each team wary of making a mistake. However, with the players on show, fans will hope for a much more exciting game than the one showcased on Monday night.
Whatever the result between these two huge teams, one thing is for sure, José Mourinho will look to take centre stage again. Conte will hope for a way to stop the limelight and the three points going to the Portuguese.
