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Published on 2024-02-26 14:22:42
This weekend, Manchester City will face off against their bitter rivals Manchester United in a highly anticipated match. However, the two teams are currently on completely different trajectories. Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions are in top form, unbeaten since December and coming into this game off the back of two 1-0 wins which have seen them close the gap to league leaders Liverpool. On the other hand, Manchester United suffered a damaging defeat in their last game, falling to their 10th loss of the season at home to Fulham, putting an abrupt end to their recent upturn in fortunes.
Guardiola has been making strategic changes to his Manchester City side in recent games, rotating players to keep them fresh. It is expected that even more rotation will take place in their upcoming FA Cup fifth round match against Luton before the derby. However, Guardiola is likely to field his strongest line-up for the Manchester United clash. Ederson will start in goal, with Ruben Dias anchoring the defense. Kyle Walker could return at right-back, and Nathan Ake may retain his place in the starting XI. In midfield, John Stones is expected to partner Rodri, while Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez will provide attacking threat alongside Erling Haaland.
Despite injury concerns with Kevin De Bruyne, Guardiola has been carefully managing his minutes and is likely to start him in the derby. With the likes of De Bruyne and Alvarez returning to the team, Manchester City will be looking to maintain their unbeaten streak.
On the other side, Manchester United will be looking to bounce back from their recent defeat against Fulham. Manager Erik ten Hag may make changes to his starting line-up, particularly in defense where injuries have left them short of options. Sofyan Amrabat could be called upon to fill in at left-back, while Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, and Diogo Dalot will provide defensive solidity.
In midfield, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to start, with Scott McTominay potentially playing in a more advanced role. Bruno Fernandes may be deployed out wide, with Alejandro Garnacho providing width on the opposite flank. Despite a below-par performance in their last game, Marcus Rashford is likely to lead the line for Manchester United in the absence of Rasmus Hojlund.
Both teams will be eager to secure a win in this highly anticipated derby clash. Manchester City will be looking to continue their unbeaten run and close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the table, while Manchester United will be aiming to bounce back from their recent defeat and reignite their season. It promises to be an exciting and intense battle between the two bitter rivals.
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