Premier League: Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United – Match Highlights and Reaction

Manchester United fell to their 18th Premier League defeat of the season on Friday night, losing 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The only goal of the game came in the 71st minute, when Marc Cucurella headed home a cross from Reece James, securing three crucial points for the hosts in their bid for a top-five finish.
Disallowed Goals and VAR Drama

United believed they had opened the scoring in the first half through Harry Maguire, who headed in a Bruno Fernandes cross. However, VAR intervened, ruling the goal out for a marginal offside.

Chelsea were later awarded a penalty after a challenge on George by goalkeeper Andre Onana, but following an on-field review, the decision was overturned.
Tensions Rise After Chelsea’s Winner

The breakthrough goal prompted a clear show of frustration from United’s senior players. Both Fernandes and Maguire confronted Alejandro Garnacho, who had only just come on as a substitute, for failing to stop James in the build-up. Garnacho's form and starting place could now be in question ahead of United’s Europa League final against Spurs on Wednesday in Bilbao.
Player Ratings (Selected)


Andre Onana – 6: Redeemed after giving away a penalty that was later overturned.


Harry Maguire – 7: Had a goal ruled out but delivered a commanding performance.


Victor Lindelof – 5: Strong first half, but lost Cucurella for the winning goal.


Bruno Fernandes – 7: Tried to drive the team forward and was vocal throughout.


Rasmus Hojlund – 4: Struggled to make an impact yet again.

(Full ratings available via the match report.)
Key Match Events


63' – Chelsea awarded a penalty (later overturned by VAR).


71' – GOAL: Chelsea 1-0 United – Cucurella heads in from James' cross.


79' – United’s Amad comes close with a low shot, saved by Sanchez.


90+3' – Heaven booked for a late challenge.

United are now winless in eight league games, marking a new low in their Premier League history. The pressure is building on manager Rúben Amorim, who now turns full attention to Wednesday’s Europa League final in what could be a season-defining match.