Xabi Alonso will be looking to pile more pressure on Michael Carrick when Chelsea host Manchester United in a Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, as both managers seek to end a difficult run of results.

The encounter presents an opportunity for Chelsea to return to winning ways after two successive defeats, while Manchester United will be desperate to end their alarming slump and give their manager some breathing space.

Carrick goes into the match under intense pressure following United’s disappointing performances, which have left the club 16th on the Premier League table with only seven points from eight matches.

The Red Devils are just one point above the relegation zone and have gone eight games without a victory in all competitions.

Their league run is equally worrying, with the club failing to win any of their last six matches. United’s latest setback was a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth last weekend, a result that increased calls for Carrick to leave his position.

The defeat came shortly after their heavy 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League, leaving the former United midfielder facing serious questions about his ability to turn the club’s fortunes around.

Despite the growing criticism, Carrick has been given more time to address the situation.

Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge, however, could prove another major test for the manager, whose team are yet to record an away victory this season.

United’s poor start is their worst in the Premier League since the 1986/87 campaign.

Their immediate concern will be to stop the run of disappointing results and avoid another defeat that could further damage confidence within the squad.

Chelsea, on the other hand, are also in need of a response after a difficult week. Alonso’s men suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend before being knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Liverpool in the fourth round.

The Blues lost the tie on penalties at Anfield after the match ended without a winner in regulation time.

The cup exit was another disappointment for a side that would have hoped to use the competition to build momentum this season.

Although Chelsea are fifth on the table, 11 places and six points ahead of United, their recent performances have raised concerns.

They have conceded 15 goals in the league, the highest number among the teams in the top 10, while their home defensive record has also been below expectations.

Chelsea have conceded an average of two goals per home league match this season, a weakness Carrick will hope his players can exploit.

Alonso will therefore be keen to ensure that his side do not allow their recent setbacks to affect their performance against United.

A victory would not only restore confidence but also help Chelsea maintain their position among the leading teams.

The Spaniard has, however, shown sympathy for Carrick, with whom he shared several battles during their playing careers.

Both men were accomplished midfielders and are now trying to establish themselves as managers at two of England’s biggest clubs.

Alonso described Carrick as a good person and expressed sympathy for the difficult situation he is facing at United.

He also acknowledged that managing a club of United’s size comes with enormous pressure, particularly when results are not going well.

The Chelsea manager, however, made it clear that his team would not approach the match with any sense of complacency because of United’s poor form.

Alonso said his players must concentrate on their own performance, show emotional control and play with the required intensity.

He also stressed the importance of scoring first in a game where both sides will be desperate for a positive result.

The meeting will also bring back memories of last season, when United won both Premier League matches against Chelsea.

The Red Devils secured a victory at Old Trafford and also won at Stamford Bridge, giving Carrick’s side a psychological advantage ahead of Saturday’s encounter.

Chelsea’s recent record against United is another source of concern for the home side.

The Blues have won only three of their last 19 meetings in all competitions, although their current form and league position suggest they should have enough quality to challenge for the points.

Carrick will also have to make an important decision concerning captain Bruno Fernandes, who was left out of the starting line-up against Bournemouth after reportedly questioning the team’s tactics following the Como defeat.

The Portuguese midfielder’s absence was strongly felt in the 3-0 loss, and his return could provide United with the creativity and leadership they lacked.

Carrick has confirmed that Fernandes remains committed to the club following discussions between them.

Chelsea are also expected to be without several players, including Joao Pedro, while injuries could affect their defensive options.

Cole Palmer, however, is available again after serving a suspension. With both teams under pressure, Saturday’s encounter is expected to be fiercely contested.

Chelsea will be eager to stop their slide and protect their standing in the league, while United need a result to prevent their season from sinking further.