Published By: Sayan Guha

Manchester United vs. Chelsea: Chelsea's Last Victory at Old Trafford and What It Means Today

Picture Courtesy— North Wales Live

As the Blues prepare for a crucial clash at the Theatre of Dreams, we look back at their last triumph and what it could signify for this season.

This Sunday, Chelsea’s best will go north to Old Trafford for a Premier League match that promises to be anything from average. Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, has had a solid start to the season, sitting comfortably in fifth position with 17 points. They enter the game following a close but decisive 2-1 win against Newcastle. The Blues are on a roll, with Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer emerging as crucial players. But as their plane lands in Manchester, they’re not just fighting for points; they’re fighting history.

Meanwhile, Manchester United, reeling from Erik ten Hag’s departure, is 14th in the rankings. Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken over as temporary coach, attempting to steady a ship that is going off course. The mood in the United camp is tight, with concerns circling about whether they can re-establish their former rhythm in this transition period. As a result, Sunday’s match becomes more than just a game; it’s an opportunity for both sides to express themselves in the unrest.

When Chelsea turned the tables

The last time Chelsea left Old Trafford with three points came on a stormy afternoon in May 2013. Interim manager Rafael Benítez delivered a tactical masterpiece, resulting in a significant win. Chelsea’s 1-0 triumph came thanks to a deflected shot from Juan Mata in the 87th minute, which sent shockwaves through Old Trafford.

The Blues were seeking Champions League qualifying, and with Arsenal hot on their tails, there was no margin for mistake. On that day, they showed courage, resilience, and a touch of luck when Mata’s strike deflected off Phil Jones and kissed the post before settling in the net. It was the lifeline Chelsea required. On the other hand, United was lethargic and lacking in fire despite having previously won the league title. Rafael received a late red card following a heated altercation with David Luiz, adding to the tension.

Sir Alex Ferguson, then United’s manager, could not disguise his displeasure, notably with Luiz, whom he accused of acting to have Rafael sent off. It was an afternoon of opposites, with one club competing for a Champions League berth and the other suffering from a post-title hangover.

A different stage, a different story?

More than a decade later, the tables have flipped. Chelsea, always considered underdogs at Old Trafford, now enter with a renewed sense of purpose and a tactical advantage under Maresca. Their recent victory against Newcastle highlighted this transition, with both defensive stability and offensive flair. For United, however, it is about restoring past glory. With Van Nistelrooy at the helm for the time being, there is optimism for the squad to be revitalised, especially as points are badly required.

This Sunday’s game allows Chelsea to emulate their 2013 triumphs and stamp their dominance in a season full of potential. But for United, it’s about rediscovering the spark that once made Old Trafford an impregnable fortress.

What’s at stake?

The EPL table has a tale of its own. Chelsea’s 17 points and fifth place suggest a gradual ascent under Maresca. United, at 14th with 11 points, is dangerously near mid-table mediocrity. A Chelsea victory might carry them forward and even reawaken memories of 2013. For United, however, this game means more than just points; it’s an opportunity to throw off the weight of previous disappointments and start over under Van Nistelrooy’s careful eye.