The Premier League has left us all in a state of excitement thus far and it’s safe to say we’re in for another round this weekend as Manchester City welcomes Manchester United to the Etihad.
A win for City would see them further cement their place at the top of the pile but a win for If United would bring them inches closer to securing a top four spot while also giving them major bragging rights over City.
Let’s take a look at the journey that has led both teams this season to this fixture.
MATCH PREVIEW
Manchester United
Manchester United looked like the team to beat at the start of the season.
They went unbeaten in the first five league games and looked like genuine title contenders during that streak, however, they’ve since succumbed to six losses and been held to eight draws putting them straight into a dog fight for a spot in the top four.
Based on the quality within their ranks it’s fair to say United have underperformed thus far this season.
Their performances have been shaky – their defence has looked porous on many occasions, midfield has – and to a large extent, still lacks cohesion and their attack has been unimaginative bar a handful of games this season.
In other words, The Red Devils aren’t at their best, but they aren’t at their worst either.
They’ve still managed to stay in contention for a top four spot – and if they do what they know how to do against City – they could bring themselves closer to securing a Champions League spot next season.
For context, the last 4 Manchester derbies in the league have seen Manchester United win twice, draw once and lose once – so despite United’s shaky performances, City will have to be extremely wary of United on Sunday.
Manchester City
There’s only one word to describe Manchester City this season with and it’s EXCEPTIONAL.
They’ve come a long way from their first game of the season which saw them suffer a 1-0 defeat against Spurs.
The Citizens followed that loss up with two 5-0 wins against Norwich and Arsenal before beating Leicester by a lone goal in Septeber.
Put together, Pep’s men tasted defeat only once in their first nine games and they’ve only suffered three defeats in the entire season thus far.
Since the start of the season, City had clearly defined goals to defend their Premier League crown, and they seem to be doing a great job in that regard.
A win against United would further cement City’s claim on the title hence Guardiola will be looking to pull out all the stops to secure a win against United on Sunday.
The last four Manchester derbies haven’t exactly been in City’s favour but in terms of their form and standing, they undoubtedly have the upper hand going into Sunday’s fixture.
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United Team News
The only major doubt for Manchester United is Edison Cavani due to a groin injury. On United’s suspension list is Mason Greenwood.
Manchester City team news
Both centre backs Nathan Ake and Ruben Dias were forced off during their FA Cup triumph over Petersborough. The defenders are the only doubts for Manchester City before Sunday’s match.
Manchester United possible lineup:
De Gea ; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Varane, Alex Telles; Fred, Matic, Pogba; Fernandes, Elanga, Ronaldo
Manchester City possible lineup:
Ederson ; Walker, Stones, Laporte, Cancelo;De Bruyne, Rodri, Gundogan;Foden, Silva, Sterling
