Predicted Manchester United Line-up To Face Manchester City In The Premier League
Manchester United finished the group stage of their European campaign with a victory over CSKA Moscow earlier this week but they are back in action this weekend, in probably one of the biggest games of the season so far. The Red Devils welcome Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side, that has been on a rampaging form this season.
Guardiola, whose side has dropped just two points all season, will resume his rivalry with Jose Mourinho and playing away from home, his side will be under pressure at Old Trafford. The Portuguese tactician will surely have a plan in place to stop the league leaders and reduce the deficit at the top of the table.
Team News
In early team news, United will still be without the likes of Michael Carrick, and Eric Bailly for this game. Paul Pogba’s red against Arsenal will see him miss this fixture while his midfield partner Nemanja Matic, may finally be back in action this weekend alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who could make the bench. Phil Jones and Marouane Fellaini ‘have a chance’ to make it to the squad.
Formation: 3-4-3
Manager: Jose Mourinho
GK – David de Gea
After being rested for the UCL clash mid-week, De Gea, who was the hero at the Emirates, should be back in action.
CB – Victor Lindelof
With Jones not being fully fit, Lindelof, who put in a superb shift against Moscow, should retain his place on the right-hand side of the backline.
CB – Chris Smalling
The English international is far from the first choice for Mourinho but injuries to key players should see him start at the heart of the defence, yet again.
CB – Marcos Rojo
Has been used as a part of the back-3 by Mourinho in the last two leagues games and was rested for the mid-week game. He is expected to start this game.
RWB – Antonio Valencia
The veteran full-back looked subdued earlier in the week but will be pumped up, playing their local rivals in this game.
CM – Ander Herrera
The Spaniard was withdrawn at the hour mark in the UCL tie and is a sure starter in the middle of the park against Manchester City.
CM – Nemanja Matic
United’s brilliant summer signing should start this game and he’ll, of course, be a crucial factor in deciding the outcome of this high-profile derby clash.
LWB – Ashley Young
The versatile winger has been productive in this wing-back role and is Mourinho best choice at left wing-back for this game.
RW – Marcus Rashford
Scored the winner earlier in the week and deserves to start this game ahead of Jesse Lingard, who is in devastating form as well.
LW – Anthony Martial
The French international has been in exceptional form this season and will be the danger man for Manchester United in this fixture.
ST – Romelu Lukaku
Ended his goal drought by scoring against Moscow but will have his work cut out against the likes of Kompany and Otamendi this weekend.