Man United already have the upper hand over Chelsea and Liverpool in heated Champions League race

Manchester United ended Gameweek 18 sitting sixth in the Premier League, firmly back in the mix for the Champions League places.

The Red Devils have collected 29 points so far, level with fifth-placed Chelsea but trailing on goal difference.

A strong run of three consecutive victories has lifted Liverpool into fourth spot with 32 points.

With just over half of the season still to play, the race for Champions League qualification is rapidly intensifying.

Here we look at two advantages United hold over their closest rivals for the coveted fourth and fifth league spot.

Fewer fixtures

United are not competing in European football this season, a stark reality for a club of their stature.

While that absence highlights recent shortcomings, it could yet prove to be a decisive advantage as the season reaches its defining stretch.

A lighter schedule allows United’s players to get more recovery time, potentially face fewer physical setbacks, and enjoy greater freshness.

It also gives manager Ruben Amorim extended periods on the training ground to fine-tune tactical details and embed his ideas.

Both Liverpool and Chelsea are participating in the Champions League this campaign.

This season’s revamped Champions League format brings an increased workload.

Chelsea are also part of the Carabao Cup, having reached the semi-finals.

That could force rotation in the league, especially if their focus shifts towards silverware in domestic cup competition.

Long-term injuries to key players

United are currently navigating a difficult period, with seven players sidelined through injuries and AFCON absences.

However, there is optimism at Old Trafford, with all of them expected to return before the end of January.

Lisandro Martinez was one long-term absentee but he has already returned.

Liverpool face a far more worrying situation.

Star striker Alexander Isak is expected to be unavailable until at least April, a huge blow to their attacking firepower.

Defender Giovanni Leoni is also highly unlikely to feature again this season.

While Leoni may not be a guaranteed starter, his absence removes a valuable rotation option for Arne Slot.

That has left Slot persisting with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, despite both being prone to costly errors this season.

Chelsea are facing a similar problem at the back.

Key centre-back Levi Colwill is sidelined with a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Like Leoni, Colwill may not return at all this campaign.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .