The Manchester Derby at the Etihad in what will be a great leveler. The two sides, Manchester United & Manchester City have not played each other this season, so it shall be interesting to see how they play.
Manchester City stand second in the table, whereas Man United is fifth, having played a game less than Man City. Man City need a win against Manchester United as they have already dropped points against Aston Villa and Newcastle.
Manchester Derby: A Great Leveler For Both Clubs
The Manchester derby is known as a great leveler. When Manchester United were fighting for titles, and Manchester City were average, Man City won the odd game against the Red Devils.
Manchester United did not start the season well, losing their first two games against Brighton and Brentford. Man City have drawn two games despite having a relatively easy start to the season in relation to the opposition played.
Recent Form
Manchester City’s most recent Premier League fixture before the international break was a resounding 0-3 win against Wolves. On the other hand, the Red Devils’ most recent Premier League fixture was the impressive 3-1 win against Arsenal. Moreover, the win against Arsenal was so impressive considering Arsenal’s form.
Team News
Laporte will be in contention for a place in the heart of the defense alongside Ruben Dias. However, Stones will be out after picking up an injury in the international break. Kalvin Phillips will be out for a long time after picking up a shoulder injury.
Manchester United could be less potent in the forward positions due potential injuries to Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford. But this means there is an opportunity for Ronaldo to silence his haters in the Manchester derby. Ronaldo has not been anywhere near his best. He has struggled in the international break.
Martin Dubravka, Donny van de Beek, Brandon Williams, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are part of the list of injuries for Manchester United.
Manchester City’s potential starting lineup:
Ederson; Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo; Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne; Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish
Manchester United’s potential starting lineup:
David De Gea; Diogo Dalot, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia; Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Anthony, Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho; Cristiano Ronaldo
Player to watch
Christian Eriksen will be imperative for Manchester United. Eriksen has taken to life at United like a duck to water. He has become as a crucial cog in Ten Hag’s system.
The Danish star has also put in great performances in games against Arsenal and Liverpool.
Manchester Derby Prediction
Manchester City have yet to play anyone of note so far this season, so it will be interesting to see how they fair against United. The Red Devils have improved since the Brentford debacle, winning four straight league games. Manchester United have not played a Premier League game since the 3-1 win against Arsenal a month ago, which could work against them.
Manchester City 2-2 Manchester United
Important Match Information
Teams: Man City versus Man Utd, Stadium: Etihad Stadium, Competition: Premier League, Date: Sunday 2nd October, Channel: Sky Sports