The Manchester Derby is the one everyone looks for when the fixture list is released, and now the game has arrived. Manchester United come into the game on a three-game winning streak – albeit the performances haven’t matched – while Manchester City have also got back to winning ways.
Confidence is building around Old Trafford for multiple positive reasons, and a win on Sunday will go a long way in reviving the season. With three points, Erik ten Hag could find him and his side within just three points of City, and as Wayne Rooney suggested, back in the title race.
So with the stakes so high – here is our United predicted XI for the derby on Sunday…
Against a team like Man City, no concessions can be made and Ten Hag will be aware that he needs to start his strongest team in order to be in with a chance.
In goal, an Andre Onana whose confidence will be renewed following his man-of-the-match display against Copenhagen in the Champions League. Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Onana during his press conference which should suggest how vital he could be here.
At right-back, Diogo Dalot will be hoping to continue his strong displays recently, while Sergio Reguilon should get the nod on the left.
A centre-half partnership of Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire has been very strong when played together and the Englishman has definitely earned his place.
Moving into the midfield, £250k-per-week man Casemiro faces a late fitness race to be available, which he should pass. Alongside him, Sofyan Amrabat also deserves to continue. This duo should allow United some defensive security.
Where it gets tricky is with the front four.
Marcus Rashford starts on the left as Ten Hag effectively said he will always start. Meanwhile, over on the right, Antony hasn’t looked up to speed so he drops out with Bruno Fernandes back on the right where he did well against City in last season’s win.
That leaves the number 10 slot open, with Mason Mount‘s work rate and technical ability perfect to help United retain possession and hopefully set-up counter attacks.
Up-front, Rasmus Hojlund continues as he continues to build relationships with those around him. Already showed he can score against big teams like Bayern Munich, so it’s time to score his first Premier League goal for United.
Manchester United predicted XI: Onana; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Reguilon; Casemiro, Amrabat; Fernandes, Mount, Rashford; Hojlund.
