Chelsea is more united, but Pochettino is concerned about a Manchester United backlash

At best, Wednesday’s match at Old Trafford is a clash of clubs vying for a place in the Champions League.

United’s turmoil has worsened, with reports of a dressing-room revolt against manager Erik ten Hag dominating the build-up.

United banned four media outlets this week, and while Ten Hag insists he still has the support of his players, pressure is mounting on the Dutchman.

Chelsea’s 3-2 win over Brighton on Sunday reduced the pressure on Mauricio Pochettino, with fighting spirit and team cohesion indicating slow progress in his rebuild.

It means Chelsea are in a better position going into the game, as the Blues look to build on their 4-1 victory at Tottenham last month.

Unlike some of the allegations leveled against United, Chelsea appears to have a strategy. Their young team has defensive flaws, discipline issues, is naive at times, and is inconsistent, but under Pochettino, they have a distinct style of play.

Chelsea are no longer carrying deadwood as a result of the summer clear-out, giving Pochettino the authority to command respect and build.

Ten Hag, on the other hand, appears to be surrounded by toxicity, with multiple reports claiming that several players want winger Jadon Sancho back in the team, while others claim the manager is losing support from his squad.