Chelsea host Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on 16 May 2025. It is one of their most important games of the season.
Chelsea are fifth on the Premier League table with two games left. A win is crucial to keep their UEFA Champions League hopes alive, as the top five will qualify.
Meanwhile, United are enduring one of their worst league campaigns in decades. They sit 16th and are mathematically safe from relegation, but not much else has gone right. They do, however, have a Europa League final against Tottenham coming up on 21 May.
This clash will be a fascinating one. Chelsea (1.46) has everything to play for. United (6.40) will want momentum going into the final, but may rest some key players. It is far from the first time these two giants of English soccer have met in a dramatic clash. Here are five of the best Chelsea vs. Manchester United matches of all time.
Chelsea 3-3 Manchester United (February 2012)
This thriller at Stamford Bridge came during the 2011/12 Premier League season. Chelsea took a 3-0 lead early in the second half, sparking wild celebrations from the home fans. However, United mounted a dramatic comeback.
Wayne Rooney scored two penalties to bring the Red Devils back into the game. Then Javier Hernandez completed the comeback with a late header. It was one of the most exciting games in the rivalry’s history.
Although neither side won, the six-goal showdown showed how dangerous both teams were in attack. It also showed the vulnerability in both defences. For online sports betting fans, it would have been an emotional rollercoaster.
Chelsea 3-0 Manchester United (April 2006)
This was a decisive clash in the title race. Chelsea needed a win to seal the Premier League title under José Mourinho. They delivered in style.
William Gallas opened the scoring with a header, sending Stamford Bridge into a frenzy. Joe Cole then added a stunning solo goal before Ricardo Carvalho sealed the win. United were outclassed from start to finish.
This match confirmed Chelsea’s dominance in English soccer at the time. Mourinho’s men defended well, attacked with flair and fully deserved the title. It was one of the club’s best performances under the Portuguese boss.
Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea (United Win on Penalties, May 2008)
This was the first-ever all-English UEFA Champions League final. It took place in Moscow, with both teams chasing European glory. The stakes were incredibly high.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored for United, while Frank Lampard equalised for Chelsea. The match went to extra time, where Didier Drogba was sent off. Eventually, it all came down to penalties.
John Terry famously slipped and missed his spot-kick. United went on to win the shootout, handing Sir Alex Ferguson his second Champions League title. For Chelsea, it was heartbreak on the biggest stage.
Chelsea 4-3 Manchester United (April 2024)
This recent Premier League clash was a seven-goal thriller. Chelsea had struggled for consistency all season, while United were trying to climb back into European contention. Both sides needed a result.
Cole Palmer starred for the Blues, scoring a brilliant hat-trick. His third goal came deep into stoppage time after United had fought back from 2-0 down to lead 3-2. Chelsea’s resilience paid off in the end.
It was one of the most dramatic games of the 2023/24 season. Palmer’s late winner sent shockwaves across the soccer world. It also kept Chelsea’s hopes of a strong finish alive.
Chelsea 4-0 Manchester United (October 2016)
This game marked José Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge as United manager. However, it turned into a nightmare for him. Chelsea dismantled the Red Devils from the first whistle.
Pedro scored within the first minute. Gary Cahill, Eden Hazard and N’Golo Kanté followed with goals of their own. United had no response to Chelsea’s energy and precision.
The result sent a strong message to the rest of the league. Antonio Conte’s Chelsea looked like genuine title contenders. For Mourinho, it was a bitter evening against his former club.
A Rivalry Rich in History
Chelsea vs. Manchester United has delivered drama for decades. From Champions League heartbreak to Premier League dominance, the fixture has seen it all. The 16 May 2025 clash could be another classic.
Chelsea will be desperate for all three points. Champions League qualification is within reach, and every result matters now. United may be out of league contention, but a strong showing could build confidence ahead of the Europa League final.
As history shows, anything can happen when these two meet. The latest chapter in this rivalry could yet become one of the most memorable. Fans and online sports betting followers alike will be watching closely.
