Paul Merson
January 2026
Merson tore into Chelsea’s display after they lost 1-0 at the Emirates and went out 4-2 on aggregate, saying they “never had a go” and exited “with a whimper.” Havertz scored late to settle the tie. Chelsea created little, tested Kepa rarely, and posted modest chance creation (0.68 xG cited). Merson argued they should have taken risks to chase the final rather than drifting through the game.
Paul Merson
September 2025
Paul Merson criticised Ruben Amorim’s rigid 3-4-3 system, arguing it doesn’t suit Manchester United’s squad but would be ideal at Chelsea. United sit 14th after four league games, with fans already questioning the coach’s suitability following another derby defeat. Merson highlighted United’s lack of quality wing-backs and midfield legs as fatal flaws in Amorim’s setup. He insisted Chelsea’s squad — with Reece James, Malo Gusto, and Moisés Caicedo — would thrive in such a system, while United struggle to adapt.