Manchester United lock horns with Manchester City for the first time this season for what promises to be an absolute belter of a derby as both the teams look to break into the top-four.
Coming off the back of an embarrassing 3-2 defeat to RB Leipzig, this might well turn out to be a make-or-break match for Ole Gunnar Solksjaer. However, the Norwegian coach has a better share of points vs Pep Guardiola, winning three times in five matches over the past two years.
Let’s take a look at how the home side is shaping up ahead of the 183rd Manchester Derby.
Team News
Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial could be back in contention to make the starting XI on Saturday after being left out of the travelling squad to Germany due to minor muscle injury.
Fred, who was suspended for the midweek clash vs RB Leipzig, will also be available for selection.
On the other hand, Guardiola has an almost full squad to choose from, with only Nathan Ake sidelined due to hamstring injury.
Sergio Aguero, having played 25 minutes vs Marseille, might come on from the bench as an impact substitution.
Predicted Line-up
Defence
David De Gea is expected to start in goal with the customary Maguire – Lindelof centre back pairing at the heart of United’s defence.
Alex Telles and Wan-Bissaka should retain their respective full-back positions in the conventional ‘back four’ system looking to improve upon their mediocre performance from the midweek defeat vs Leipzig.
Luke Shaw and academy graduate Axel Tuanzebe might be called off the bench if needed.
Midfield
Fred will be in contention to feature against the Citizens and form a double pivot alongside Scott McTominay, thus shielding the entire backline.
Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford remain surefire starters for United this week, and it’ll be an understatement to say that The Red Devils will be highly dependent on the former’s creative work if they want to stand a chance against the noisy neighbours.
Young Mason Greenwood looks likely to start the game over on the right flank, looking for opportunities to stretch the attack using his pace and directness whenever possible.
Ole Gunnar Solksjaer will authorize his routine second-half substitutions in the form of Paul Pogba and Van De Beek.
Attack
Edinson Cavani should be able to recover just in time to lead the line for the home side on Saturday. The Uruguayan’s adept movement in front of the goal can be utilized as an asset against Guardiola’s side.
