The victory lifted Enzo Maresca’s side to fourth place, level on points with Aston Villa but ahead on goal difference. With one match left, Chelsea are now in control of their European fate.
Chelsea boosted their Champions League hopes with a narrow 1-0 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Friday, in a result that could define their season.
Marc Cucurella scored the decisive goal in the second half, heading home from a Reece James cross to seal three vital points.
The victory lifted Enzo Maresca’s side to fourth place, level on points with Aston Villa but ahead on goal difference. With one match left, Chelsea are now in control of their European fate.
Manchester United, meanwhile, remain 16th in the table after their 18th league defeat. Harry Maguire had a goal disallowed by VAR for offside, while a Chelsea penalty was later overturned following a review.
“We needed this kind of win,” Maresca said. “It shows the group is growing.”
Despite missing key forwards, Chelsea’s young squad stood firm. Conor Gallagher and Moisés Caicedo dominated midfield, while Tyrique George led the line with promise.
United’s focus now shifts to the Europa League final. “We must respond,” manager Ruben Amorim said.