Chelsea vs MU: A battle for honor.

(Baonghean.vn) - At 10:00 PM today (October 23rd), Chelsea and Manchester United will face off in the highly anticipated match of the 9th round of the English Premier League. The outcome will be difficult to predict, as both teams have reasons to be smiling after 90 minutes.

But undoubtedly, this could be their most exciting and captivating match of the season so far. Because the pride of a "big club" with championship ambitions, and the conflict between newcomers and departing teams, are driving them to fight hard to secure all three points at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea vs. Manchester United is the highlight match of Premier League Round 9. (Image: Internet)

Having joined Chelsea in 2004, the title "The Special One" has been associated with manager Mourinho ever since. This self-proclaimed "eccentric" label is well-deserved given what he has "built" and "created" at Stamford Bridge. Indeed, the "legacy" that Mou left behind at Stamford Bridge is something that will not be easily replicated by others. Even after his departure, that legacy remains. Simply put, Chelsea's success is thanks to him; mentioning Chelsea is mentioning Mou, and vice versa.

Even though his "remarriage" was against him—from the players and staff to owner Abramovic and the media attacks that led to his dismissal last December—they cannot deny that Chelsea's three Premier League titles were built upon Mourinho's unique philosophy, playing style, and approach. Many Chelsea fans still consider Mourinho a "saint" for his significant contributions in transforming Chelsea into a solid force in English football during his era.

Coach Mourinho has left Chelsea a huge and indelible legacy. (Image: Internet)

Returning to Stamford Bridge with a nearly full-strength squad (only Jones is absent due to injury), can Mourinho once again stir up London? It's very possible! But now, the shadow of the "Special One" has somewhat faded. He might even face boos from the stands. Because of the "stains" Mourinho once caused, because he was the manager of their arch-rivals – the "Red Devils". And also because the new manager, Conte, is doing so well at Chelsea, both in terms of the team's image and his coaching style.

The Italian coach is achieving what many have failed to do: steering Chelsea away from the "special" influence of Mourinho. Instead of criticizing and berating like Mourinho, he is igniting the "Blue Warriors" in training and matches with the energy and charisma of a manager who "governs with heart." Most importantly, he is truly implementing a tactical revolution at Stamford Bridge.

The switch from a 4-2-3-1 formation to a 3-4-3 has yielded initial success, with two consecutive wins against Hull and reigning champions Leicester. While Hull is considered the underdog, and Leicester City is merely a fleeting phenomenon, the victories at least helped Chelsea end a disappointing September and usher in a hopeful October, providing the perfect springboard for the crucial clash with Manchester United.

Only a victory will help coach Conte erase the "legend" of Mourinho at Stamford Bridge. (Image: Internet)

History is on Conte's side, as Chelsea have only lost one match (winning 8, drawing 5) in 14 encounters with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge since 2002. However, that doesn't mean Conte will also succeed against MU. If Mourinho instructs the "Red Devils" to play defensively, parking like in the draw against Liverpool earlier this week, who can guarantee Chelsea will secure another victory? Not to mention, MU are gradually returning to winning ways, having gone unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions, winning four. And let's not forget that Mourinho understands Chelsea even better than Conte. He also has superior experience in Premier League clashes compared to his counterpart on the other side.

But surely, Coach Conte and his team will not be easily humiliated. Because a draw, let alone a loss, at home against their arch-rivals Manchester United would be terrible for Chelsea, a disgrace for the players who once betrayed Mourinho. And for the sake of honor under the new regime, free from the haunting specter of "The Special One," their only option is to fight to win.

Can MU break the jinx and come away with one point, or more, to protect Mourinho's honor and the legacy he built at Chelsea? The clash at Stamford Bridge tonight will answer all.

Duong Thuc Anh