Manchester City will travel to Old Trafford to take on their derby rivals Manchester United. The power has definitely shifted in Manchester as both the teams are fighting for points for a different reason. City and Liverpool are currently in a league of their own as they have maintained the pressure for the title on each other since the past few months. Any other season and either of the teams would have likely romped to the title given the number of points they already have. City knows that they cannot afford to slip up as they are two points behind Liverpool but with a game in hand.
On the other hand, Manchester United are fighting for the fourth spot. Chelsea and Arsenal dropped points at the weekend, and even though United suffered a shambolic 4-0 defeat against the hands of Everton, they are in the running for the Champions League spot.
Here are three things which Pep Guardiola needs to do to ensure victory against Manchester United.
Defending the set pieces well
United’s biggest threat is likely to come from set pieces in the game. Last time the two teams met at Old Trafford, City squandered a two goal lead as they lost 3-2 and United’s major threat came from the set pieces. City were thrown out of the Champions League because of a goal from a set piece, and we can’t stress enough on how City needs to be on their toes every time United receive a set piece.
Starting Fernandinho over Gundogan
It’s surprising that the Brazilian has fallen behind the pecking order in the last few games. However, we feel that it was entirely tactical not to use him against Spurs. We are expecting a physical game from United, and they are likely to show that little bit of extra commitment after the weekend debacle against Everton. Fernandinho could just be the right man to start in the deepest role in midfield ahead of Gundogan. The Brazilian is good on the ball, but most importantly he will be up for a battle in midfield.
Doing the basics right
Pep Guardiola often seems to stress a bit too much for the big games, and as a result, his record in the Champions League has been dismal in the last few years. Every game is like a knockout game at this stage of the season as City knows any drop in points would hand Liverpool the advantage.
Player for player, City are currently streets ahead of this Manchester United side, and if they do the basics right, they should be able to earn the three points. Moving the ball quickly, pressing them with purpose, not engaging and committing any silly fouls and being patient should be the mantra for the Citizens.
