MCI Pre-Match Preview: Manchester City vs Manchester United

After our demolition of Luton Town midweek, Manchester City now turn their attention to arguably the most anticipated game of the the Premier League season, against the old foe Manchester United. This is the 192nd meeting between these 2 teams, and for many fans across the globe, it is regularly one of the first games in the calendar. The fortress that is the Etihad is the stage for tomorrow’s game.

Earlier in the season, City put United to the sword, with a comprehensive 3-0 at Old Trafford, with Haaland grabbing a brace, and the majestic talent of Phil Foden finishing the game off. Some might expect this reverse fixture to be heading in the same direction, though, this is derby day, so expect the unexpected.

MY PREDICTED/HOPEFUL LINE UP = 

The team lineup will always be a talking point, but with Jack Grealish not being available, and Jeremy Doku not quite firing on all cylinders in recent weeks, one of the main interests is who will be occupying the left hand side of the City attack. Nunes put in a performance that went slightly under the radar in our last game, so it wouldn’t be a shock to see him operate on the left hand side, which would allow Foden to play alongside KDB in the centre. That would ultimately mean there would be no room for either of Alvarez or Kovacic, but I do expect them to play a part of this game at some stage. 

In addition, the defensive will also be a point of interest for some, with uncertainty as to the left and right side of the defense. Walker impressed midweek, as did Akanji playing slightly out of position, so that right hand side of the defensive line will be a cause of conversation. With Ake being available, I would also be surprised to see Gvardiol start, but either fit into the starting 11 with ease and without breaking the teams fluidity.

EDERSON; AKANJI, DIAS, STONES, AKE; RODRI, KDB, FODEN; BERNARDO, NUNES, HAALAND

MOTM PREDICTIONS:

Manchester United are on a good run of form, with 4 wins in their last 5 with 1 loss, but are susceptible to conceding chances, and have done so on a regular basis this season. City have also won 4 of their last 5, with only dropping points against Chelsea in a 1-1 draw.

The key to this game is how well City can control and dominate the midfield area, with the attackers taking their chances when presented with them.

KDB has come back into the team without any signs of the injury causing any grief, and he is the man that will be pulling the strings from the outset. If he is on top form, City will win this game, and I expect him to have a big say in the final result.

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