Everyone and his mother knows that Roman Abramovich wants Pep Guardiola at his club, but I was still surprised with the timing of the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo. On Wednesday the amiable Italian became the eighth manager of the Abramovich era and Rafa Benitez has assumed the role at least until the end of the season.
I cannot help but think that the Spaniards appointment has something to do with the much maligned Fernando Torres. Benitez walks into a storm and his first game in charge is a huge clash with Manchester City on Sunday. Both clubs had disappointing European results in the week, which will only add to the occasion.
Another matter that Benitez must address is the shocking defending we’ve seen from Chelsea over the past few weeks. John Terry’s absence has had a much bigger effect than I first thought and he’ll of course be missing for City. Rafa thrives with the tactical side of management and he’ll need all his expertise if the Blues are to secure their first clean sheet in ten matches.
Roberto Mancini has faced a media inquisition following his failure to get his side out of the group stages for the second straight year, but they have impressed domestically. City took back top spot after smashing Villa and even with Wednesday’s disappointments I like their chances of picking up an important win.
QPR are now the only side in the league without a win and it’s patently obvious to see why Mark Hughes had to leave his post. He received the dreaded vote of confidence from his chairman ahead of the trip to Old Trafford and that inevitably meant a sacking.
Results don’t lie which is why the blame must rest with Hughes and he hasn’t been helped with some suspect signings, who seem more worried about their pay-slip than league position. United rested their big guns on Tuesday and Sir Alex will welcome back Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie.
United still look a little suspect at the back and will be desperate to keep a clean sheet against a side that lacks any real attacking options. The visitors have struck just three times in five games and this might just be an easy day at the office for David de Gea.
Rangers won’t be able to cope with a full strength United side that are hurting from the defeat at Carrow Road and they should bounce back with an effortless home win.
Betting on BETDAQ – Alan’s Punts:
Chelsea v Man City – Back Man City at 2.85
Man Utd v QPR – Back Man Utd with -2 Asian handicap at 1.92
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