Manchester Derby Preview: Man United v Man City
The Manchester Derby Preview: Man United v Man City is here, and it promises to be another tough encounter as the two city rivals clash at Old Trafford. For Ruben Amorim, this will be his first taste of the intense Manchester derby, as he leads United against a determined Manchester City side.
A Manchester Derby Double for United?
A dramatic victory at the Etihad before Christmas, courtesy of a Bruno Fernandes penalty and Amad’s stoppage-time winner, gave United a crucial win. A repeat of that success would provide a massive boost ahead of their Europa League clash with Lyon.
The game is set for Sunday at 16:30 BST, during a hectic Premier League weekend, and United will be aiming to complete their first league double over City in five years.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of this eagerly awaited fixture, including key team news and how to watch the game live.
Manchester Derby Team News: Key Injuries and Returns
United have received a slight boost in the injury department, with Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, and Leny Yoro returning to action against Nottingham Forest. Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was also included in the matchday squad for the 1-0 loss.
Manager Ruben Amorim remains hopeful that Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw will be available soon, while Amad, Jonny Evans, and Ayden Heaven are making progress in their recoveries.
For Manchester City, the absence of Erling Haaland is a significant blow. The prolific striker is expected to be sidelined for five to seven weeks after sustaining an ankle injury in their FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth. With Haaland out, Omar Marmoush is the likeliest candidate to lead City’s attack, having recently scored against both Bournemouth and Leicester.
Pep Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Haaland but remains confident in his squad’s ability to adapt. “We don’t have another player with his skills or specific qualities, we know that, but we have to adjust,” said the City boss.
Defensively, City are also dealing with setbacks. Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake, and John Stones remain out, while midfield maestro Rodri is still working his way back from a long-term injury suffered in September.
Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record
United’s impressive four-game unbeaten league streak came to an end with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, courtesy of Anthony Elanga’s early strike. This marks their first league match at Old Trafford since the 1-1 draw with Arsenal in early March.
Meanwhile, City’s away form has been inconsistent. Since their long unbeaten run ended at Bournemouth in November, Guardiola’s side has picked up just 11 points from 11 Premier League away fixtures. Their only away victories in that period came against Leicester, Ipswich Town, and Tottenham Hotspur. However, they secured a much-needed 2-0 league win over Leicester in midweek.
The Tactical Battle
Amorim’s tactical approach will be closely watched in this Manchester derby preview. United will likely look to remain disciplined at the back while exploiting City on the counterattack. Bruno Fernandes will be pivotal in linking play, while Marcus Rashford’s pace could trouble City’s defense.
Guardiola’s men, despite their injuries, will aim to dominate possession and create opportunities through their intricate passing game. Without Haaland, City’s attacking approach may shift, requiring players like Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez to step up in key moments.
Can United Do the Double Over City?
The last time United completed a league double over City was in the 2019/20 season under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. That campaign saw United claim a 2-1 victory at the Etihad, with goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, before sealing a 2-0 triumph at Old Trafford. The latter game featured an unforgettable stoppage-time goal from Scott McTominay, sending the home crowd into raptures.
A repeat of that feat would be a significant statement for United, particularly under their new manager. It would also serve as a major confidence boost heading into the crucial Europa League tie against Lyon.
Final Thoughts on the Manchester Derby Preview
The Manchester derby is sure to be an exciting clash between two of English football’s biggest clubs. With United aiming for their first league double over City in five years and Guardiola’s side battling injuries, the stage is set for a compelling encounter. Will United rise to the occasion and delight the Old Trafford faithful, or will City’s adaptability prove too strong? All eyes will be on Manchester this Sunday to find out.
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