Man Utd goal drought among Champions League storylines
Published:
All the Premier League clubs have massive matches coming up in gameweek four of the Champions League, as not one of Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United or Manchester City can breathe easily in terms of qualification for the knockout stages.
Tuesday night sees both Manchester clubs in action before the London-based clubs take up the reins on Wednesday. Below are the main storylines:
Manchester United v CSKA Moscow, Group B:
Where are United’s goals going to come from?
A 1-1 draw in Russia last time out typified United’s indifferent European campaign to date and the big worry now is goals.
A 0-0 draw away at Crystal Palace prior to this was United’s third straight goalless 90 minutes since earning a point at CSKA, whom the Red Devils are locked on four points apiece with.
Skipper Wayne Rooney has attracted much criticism for some peripheral performances leading the line, increasing clamour for Anthony Martial to get the central role, but in truth the likes of Juan Mata and Memphis Depay must chip in with more goals.
Under 1.5 United goals is an 11/10 chance with Ladbrokes.
Sevilla v Manchester City, Group D:
Can Citizens create daylight between themselves and Spaniards?
In the absence of Sergio Aguero, City have been forced to find other sources of goals and luckily for their chances of qualification Kevin de Bruyne stepped up in dramatic fashion at the Etihad last time.
That late winner against Sevilla put three points between the sides and if Manuel Pellegrini’s men could grab a win in Spain then they would have one foot in the round of 16, regardless of what leaders Juventus do.
City are 6/4 to grab victory in Seville.
Bayern Munich v Arsenal Group F:
Arsenal must get something in Germany
Although Arsene Wenger’s men recorded a famous triumph over Bayern last time around, the stark reality is their disastrous start makes it imperative they grab at least a point in Germany if they are to claw their way out the group.
Injuries won’t help, but a 3-0 win in the Premier League at Swansea was their fifth straight in the top flight so Wenger’s men carry excellent form into the game in Munich.
A point for Arsenal is rated at 15/4.
Chelsea v Dynamo Kiev, Group G:
Will Mourinho still be in charge?
A sixth Premier League loss of the season against Liverpool for the champions left Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea future hanging by a thread.
The Special One insisted his job was not under immediate threat, but he’s odds-on with Ladbrokes to be the next Premier League manager to leave at 4/9.
If the Portuguese boss is still in charge, a win against Kiev is crucial with the Blues in third, a point behind the Ukrainians and three behind group leaders Porto.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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