Surprising Selections
A Chelsea-Manchester United combined XI, based on 2024/25 Premier League WhoScored ratings, omits stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Enzo Fernandez, and Reece James, stirring debate, per Football365 on May 16, 2025.
Goalkeeper and Defense Stir Controversy
Robert Sanchez (6.58) edges out Andre Onana as goalkeeper, despite both being error-prone, due to his role as Chelsea’s primary starter over Filip Jorgensen. Onana’s consistency for United, unchallenged by Altay Bayindir, wasn’t enough. At right-back, Noussair Mazraoui (6.79) from United outshines Reece James, who’s been sparingly used by Enzo Maresca. Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo (6.67) and Levi Colwill (6.70) form the center-back pairing, with Adarabioyo’s 13 starts and Colwill’s 33 out of 36 matches trumping United’s injured Lisandro Martinez. Diogo Dalot (6.84) secures left-back over Marc Cucurella, showcasing versatility in Amorim’s system. On X, @CFCBlues_com questioned James’ exclusion, while @MUFCFans lauded Mazraoui’s “steal” signing.
Midfield Powerhouses Shine
Moises Caicedo (7.02) and Bruno Fernandes (7.20) anchor the midfield. Caicedo’s consistency for Chelsea, including a stunning goal at Old Trafford, silences his £105m critics, per Opta. Fernandes, United’s standout with 8 goals and 7 assists, is indispensable, per WhoScored. No room for Fernandez or Mainoo, with the latter’s 6.55 rating falling short. @PremierLeagueHQ on X called Fernandes “United’s lifeline.”
Attack Led by Palmer
Cole Palmer (7.35) headlines the attack at No.10, his 15 goals and 8 assists unmatched, despite a recent drought. Amad Diallo (7.17) takes right wing, thriving under Amorim’s 3-4-3, while Pedro Neto (6.78) edges out inconsistent options like Alejandro Garnacho on the left. @ChelseaFC praised Palmer’s “magic,” but @UnitedStandMUFC lamented Garnacho’s snub. This XI, blending Chelsea’s solidity and United’s flair, sets the stage for their May 16 clash.
