The Manchester derby returns to the Etihad Stadium this weekend as Manchester City and Manchester United face off in a critical Premier League clash. Pep Guardiola's side will look to regain consistency after a challenging run of form in both domestic and European competitions. Meanwhile, United’s new boss, Ruben Amorim, will hope to make an impression in his first taste of derby day since taking charge.
Both teams come into this fixture with concerns in key positions, but the wealth of talent on display promises an engaging encounter.
City's injury-hit defence could present opportunities for United's attack, while City's formidable frontline, led by Erling Haaland, will look to exploit any frailties in United’s backline.
Manchester City Team News
Pep Guardiola’s side faces significant defensive issues ahead of the derby. The suspension of Rico Lewis and injuries to Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Nathan Ake, and John Stones severely limit City’s options at the back.
Consequently, Guardiola may be forced to field youngster Jahmai Simpson-Pusey alongside stalwarts Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol. Ederson is expected to continue in goal.
In midfield, Kevin De Bruyne is set to start after returning to full fitness, while Mateo Kovacic could slot in alongside him. Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden will provide creativity, and Matheus Nunes could retain his spot on the right flank.
Up front, Erling Haaland will spearhead the attack and look to get the better of United's defence.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup
Ederson; Walker, Dias, Simpson-Pusey, Gvardiol; De Bruyne, Kovacic; Silva, Foden, Nunes; Haaland
Here is how the side last lined up
Manchester United Team News
Manchester United will look to bounce back from recent league struggles, and Amorim is likely to make changes to his starting XI. Luke Shaw remains sidelined, but Jonny Evans’ return to training boosts defensive options.
Andre Onana should continue in goal, with Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui likely to form the back four.
Amorim may rely on young midfield duo Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte to add defensive stability. Bruno Fernandes will play in his preferred number 10 role, supported by Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount on the flanks.
Rasmus Hojlund is expected to lead the line after his recent goalscoring form in Europe.
Manchester United Predicted Lineup
Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez; Diallo, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot; Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
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