Man Utd's Next Five Fixtures Compared to Liverpool and Chelsea After Man City Derby Win

Manchester United are riding high after a thrilling derby victory over Manchester City at Old Trafford, with interim boss Michael Carrick masterminding a hard-fought win that has boosted their Premier League ambitions. The result, part of a packed weekend slate including Liverpool vs. Burnley and Chelsea vs. Brentford, has reignited hope among United fans for a top-four push in the 2025-26 season.[1]

The article delves into United's next five fixtures, stacking them against rivals Liverpool and Chelsea to assess the run-in challenges. For Man Utd, February kicks off with a home clash against Fulham on Sunday, February 1 – a winnable start. They then host Tottenham on February 7, face West Ham away on February 10, travel to Everton on February 23, and cap the month with a home game versus an unspecified opponent on February 28. This mix includes tough away tests but favorable home ties.[5]

Comparatively, Chelsea's schedule looks daunting, starting with a home Premier League match against Brentford on Saturday, January 17, at Stamford Bridge – a London derby under new manager Liam Rosenior. Later fixtures include trips to Fulham and Brighton, plus a blockbuster home game versus Man Utd, testing their consistency amid injury woes.[3][4]

Liverpool, the reigning champions, face a varied run: an away fixture at an unconfirmed opponent post-Burnley, followed by Everton away in April and Brentford at home in May. Key clashes like Man Utd at home and potential Champions League distractions could stretch them thin.[2][3][7]

Analysts highlight United's edge in home games versus rivals' trickier aways, positioning Carrick's side for momentum. However, with fixture congestion and midweek rounds looming, depth will be crucial. The comparison underscores why United fans are optimistic post-derby, eyeing a Champions League spot.[1][2]

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