Ah, the big English tie. Two squads seemingly on the decline / in transition, with considerable ‘recent’ history. Chelsea have the upper hand in playing a disciplined, physical game and just wearing United down. Of course, they don’t have Luiz available for Europe, but the rest of the side is good enough to give United a scare at Stamford Bridge. Old Trafford will be a very different story, and a great end-to-end match.
Manchester United’s biggest worry – and the thing this game will eventually rest on – is the state of their defence.
You might think that Rio’s absence is not important as he hasn’t played many games this season anyway, but only have one senior defender fit (actually United will be happy if he’s fit after the international break) in the run-in to the season and see how quickly points are lost. At least in the league Arsenal have similar concerns. In Europe, United may be welcoming the return to form of Rooney (and Valencia / Park / Fletcher returning from injury in the near future) but United’s defence is where the battle would be won or lost. The closest / toughest tie of the last-eight to call.
Predictions: Chelsea have the advantage.
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