Overview

• Robert Sánchez was sent off inside five minutes for bringing down Bryan Mbeumo, and Maresca later said he would have preferred conceding a goal to losing his goalkeeper.
• Enforced changes saw Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto make way for Filip Jorgensen and Tosin Adarabioyo, before Cole Palmer was withdrawn in the 21st minute, the earliest first three substitutions on record in the Premier League.
• Maresca said Palmer had passed a morning fitness test but felt his recurring groin issue early on, leaving his short‑term availability a concern.
• Casemiro doubled Manchester United’s lead and was then sent off before half‑time; Trevoh Chalobah scored late for Chelsea as Opta recorded more Chelsea cards (six) than shots (five).
• Pundits including Wayne Rooney and Danny Murphy criticised Maresca’s tactical reshuffle, with Sánchez now set for suspension ahead of the Carabao Cup tie against Lincoln City.