Play to win
Result is king as far as Jose is concerned, and while the defensive battle must be won, more importantly, the game must also be won. The Red Devils must play to win. The end product of Mourinho’s game plan must be to get a win.
Albeit, the share of the spoils will still be considered a manageable result, a loss of any kind will only further justify Chelsea’s belief that the tactician isn’t at the top of his game like he used to. The result of this game will mean a lot for both sides, but more importantly to Mourinho’s credibility.
Leaving the Bridge with all 3 points will be the perfect psychological boost the Red Devils need to really get their title ambitions back on track. And the only way to get a win on the road is to play to win. No spoilers, no surprising tactics, just 3 points in the bag without making (much) drama out of it.
Play Mata
A starting XI without this creative attacking genius will mean Jose isn’t keen to come out tops with his head held high at the end of the encounter. While Fellaini did put in splendid work against Liverpool on Monday, it deprived the wingers and Zlatan of enjoying any meaning supply from the middle of the park.
With Mata in the mix against Chelsea and in his elements, United’s attack won’t be starved of chances and goal scoring opportunities. Playing it safe won’t make sense at the Bridge, Conte should be the one to do to worry about that. Jose must come all out for victory, and playing Juan Mata is crucial if that will be possible.