Manchester United solidified their place in the Premier League’s top four with an impressive 4-1 triumph over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Thursday evening.
Erik ten Hag’s side entered the match knowing that a draw would secure their involvement in next season’s Champions League with a game to spare. However, they went one step further, delivering a commanding performance that propelled them into third position, two points clear of fourth-placed Newcastle United ahead of the final matchday.
Manchester United took control of the game early on, with goals from Casemiro and Anthony Martial in the first half. The momentum continued in the second half as Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, and Marcus Rashford, making his return, found the back of the net. Joao Felix managed to score a late consolation goal for Chelsea, but it was too little, too late for Frank Lampard’s side.
Liverpool’s position in the Europa League has now been confirmed, while Chelsea remains in 12th position, three points ahead of 14th-placed West Ham United.
Rashford, who had been sidelined due to injury and illness, made a comeback but started the match on the bench. Ten Hag opted for an unchanged lineup for the third consecutive game, following back-to-back victories against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bournemouth.
Chelsea made three changes from their previous match, with Carney Chukwuemeka, Mykhaylo Mudryk, and Noni Madueke coming into the starting lineup to provide the fans with something to cheer about.
Manchester United took an early lead in the sixth minute when Casemiro headed in a free-kick delivered by Christian Eriksen. The goal was confirmed after a potential offside check.
Throughout the match, Chelsea had their moments, but they failed to capitalize on key chances. Manchester United extended their lead in the final stages of the first half, with Martial converting a close-range opportunity after an excellent pass from Jadon Sancho.
The second half saw Manchester United continue to dominate, as Fernandes struck the post, and Rashford, who came on as a substitute, eventually found the back of the net. Fernandes sealed the victory by confidently converting a penalty awarded after Wesley Fofana’s foul on him in the box.
With their top-four finish secured, Manchester United can now focus on their final league fixture against Fulham before turning their attention to the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City on June 3.
On the other hand, Chelsea’s defeat sets a new club record of 16 losses in a 38-game Premier League season. They are also guaranteed to finish in the bottom half of the table for the first time in 27 years. Lampard’s side will conclude their campaign at home against Newcastle on Sunday.