Redaction Willow Austin with Joe Brophy
Published on 2024-02-26 11:43:23
Manchester United will be looking to seek revenge when they face their local rivals, Manchester City, at the Etihad Stadium this weekend. The last time these two teams met in October, United suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford, which marked the beginning of a downward spiral for their season. Since then, United’s form has worsened, with their recent four-game winning streak in the Premier League coming to an end with a late 2-1 defeat to Fulham.
Erik ten Hag’s side will also be in midweek FA Cup action before the derby, their last chance at winning silverware this season. However, their focus will undoubtedly be on the upcoming clash against City, as a loss could significantly impact their Champions League hopes. Currently sitting in sixth place, eight points adrift of the top four, United cannot afford to slip up against their rivals.
On the other hand, City are also facing an important week in their quest to defend both their FA Cup and Premier League titles. Pep Guardiola’s team will first face Luton Town in the fifth round of the FA Cup before gearing up for the Manchester derby. City are currently in a tight race for the title, trailing leaders Liverpool by the same margin as they sit in second place.
One player who will be looking for redemption in the Manchester derby is Antony, who has had a turbulent season at United. Despite being brought on in the 9th minute of stoppage time during the defeat to Fulham, Antony has struggled to make an impact. However, a return to the Etihad Stadium could provide him with the opportunity to make amends, especially after scoring a memorable goal against City earlier in the season.
Gabby Agbonlahor has been critical of Ten Hag’s reaction to United’s recent performances, calling for the Dutch manager to be sacked. Agbonlahor believes that Ten Hag’s delusional comments about the team’s performances are a cause for concern and that a change is needed at the helm.
In terms of team news, Kevin De Bruyne is set to start for City after recovering from a hamstring injury. Jack Grealish is also available, but Josko Gvardiol remains sidelined with an ankle problem. United, on the other hand, will be without key players like Rasmus Hojlund, Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount due to various injuries.
The Manchester derby promises to be an exciting and crucial match for both teams, with a lot at stake in terms of their respective season goals. Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports Main and Sky Sports Premier League, with live updates on talkSPORT throughout the afternoon. It will be a showdown not to be missed as the two local rivals battle it out for supremacy in Manchester.
Read Original article on Talksport
