Enzo Maresca has explained a danger Manchester United possess that he’s worried about as he hints at Alejandro Garnacho’s return to Old Trafford.
Manchester United host Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon as Enzo Maresca brings his side north for a Premier League clash.
It has been a tough start for United, who have picked up just four points from their first four matches. A late win over Burnley was a brief highlight, but they sit 14th in the table – their worst beginning to a season since 1992/93.
Rúben Amorim’s team come into the game on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City. Despite showing intent at the start of each half, United struggled to turn possession into chances, leaving Benjamin Šeško isolated up front. As a result, pressure on Amorim is mounting.
The meeting also sees Alejandro Garnacho return to Old Trafford for the first time since sealing a £40 million move to Chelsea last month, after Amorim forced him out of the squad.
Maresca worried about United motivation
With Chelsea visiting Old Trafford for the first time since Amorim took charge of the side in Manchester, they arrive at a period where there is already intense pressure on the United boss to score results.
Despite winning just one of their first five games this season, Maresca still believes playing and beating United at Old Trafford is a very hard task.
“I think it’s always difficult to play United away at their stadium,” the Italian said on Friday morning, speaking to reporters.
“Now is not the right moment, next year or last year, it is always difficult. Some of the games they have played this season is not the real result, even the City game. It will be a tough game, no doubt.”
Further, Maresc was asked if there is a ‘danger’ United possess amid their intense desire to recify recent results, with the Chelsea boss admitting that this is undoubtedly a crucial game for the Reds.
“They have the desire to win this game, after when you struggle, there is a desire to win the next game,” he said. “Against Chelsea, at home, in front of their fans – they are all reasons why this game is important.”
Garnacho could start vs United
As mentioned above, the Saturday afternoon fixture represents the first time Garnahco returns to Old Trafford after making the switch to Stamford Bridge at the end of August.
The 21-year-old has so far come off the bench twice for Chelsea, in their 2-2 draw with Brentford last weekend and midweek 3-1 Champions League loss away from home against Bayern Munich.
When asked about the winger, Maresca confirmed that he feels Garnacho may be fit and ready to start for Chelsea against United.
“In the last two games, he was very good when he came on. So we are happy with the way he has adapted to our style and what we want from the winger. I think he is ready to start.”
After 144 appearances, 26 goals, and 22 assists in Red, it will be interesting to see what kind of reception United’s fans give Garnacho as he returns tot he club he made his professional debut with.
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