Sofascore’s combined XI for Chelsea and Manchester United lands with an awkward message for the Premier League table. Built from average ratings across all competitions this campaign, and put together ahead of the matchweek nine meeting, it gives United six spots even though they sit 16th with seven points and 13 goals conceded.

United's six places in the XI

The headline is not that Chelsea have strong players, because they do. The surprise is how many United names still make the cut in a ratings-based side when their league start has been so poor. Sofascore's selection is a reminder that individual numbers can survive a bad team start, even if the broader results have been grim.

The United core in the combined XI includes Kobbie Mainoo, whose 6 Premier League appearances, 447 minutes and 7.16 rating this season give his place some statistical weight. His inclusion also fits the broader case for United players, with the model clearly separating individual performance from the club's league position.

Mainoo and Chelsea's stronger cases

Mainoo's selection is the cleanest United call, even with criticism around his game. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville said his lack of 'dynamism' has been criticised by former player and now pundit Gary Neville. The rating, though, sits at 7.16 and does back up the case that he has done enough to feature in a combined side.

Chelsea's strongest claims come from players who have been steadier across the season. Pedro Neto has scored 4 and assisted 1 in 8 games, and that production explains why he stands out on the Chelsea side of the combined XI. The other selection that draws attention is Wesley Fofana, while the 36-year-old [Jordan Henderson] is described as a regular starter in Chelsea's team.

The ratings model does not say United are the better team. It does show that, in a mixed start to the 2025-26 season, their best performers still get into a combined XI with Chelsea. The next meeting between the sides comes in matchweek nine, and Sofascore's balance sheet leaves United with six names in the team.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →