Manchester United’s resurgence in the Premier League under interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been immense, and the Red Devils even leapfrogged Chelsea into the top four last weekend.
In December, Manchester United were more than 10 points adrift of the top four, but the Norwegian’s arrival has seen them win all but one Premier League game since Mourinho’s departure.
Now, the Red Devils seem like the real deal and will take some stopping in the coming months, and might even play a major role in Manchester City and Liverpool’s title tussle.
With 12 games remaining in the Premier League, here are three reasons why Manchester United will finish above Chelsea.
Manchester United have finally found an identity
After Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, Solskjaer’s arrival has been a breath of fresh air as it seems like the players have been unshackled.
Although United were second best against PSG, the side have got the job done with authority in the league.
While many presumed that early few wins under Solskjaer came against the weaker teams, wins against Tottenham and Leicester show that the Red Devils’ form is no fluke.
The likes of Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba, who often left a lot to be desired during the Mourinho era, have suddenly found their feet as the attacking approach has worked well for the team.
Improved defensive performances
While many critics have pointed out that a more aggressive approach leaves teams vulnerable at the back, the same cannot be said about United.
Under Mourinho, the team often played a low-block, a system where even the smallest lapses in concentration were punished.
The more attacking approach means United have managed to win the ball higher up the pitch at times.
Victor Lindelof’s performances have also improved in the last couple of months and that has helped the team, even though David de Gea remains an instrumental figure at the back.
Chelsea and Arsenal’s problems
While Arsenal are still in a defensive mess, which was once again highlighted by their inability to keep a clean sheet against bottom-placed side Huddersfield Town, and their defeat to Europa League minnows BATE Borisov, Chelsea have hit a poor run of form.
Maurizio Sarri’s side started the season well and were seen as early title contenders, but the problems have become evident of late as they don’t seem to have a plan B and are too reliant on Eden Hazard up front.
A 6-0 hammering against Manchester City exposed problems at the back, and we’re yet to learn how well Gonzalo Higuain will do in the coming months.