The Red Devils face their arch rivals Manchester City away from home. This is one of the hottest fixtures of the footballing calendar and United will try to extend their 8 games unbeaten streak. This is going to be their 187th Manchester Derby.
Last time out, the results didn’t go quite well as they demolished United by a 2-0 margin. Eric Bailly’s own goal and a swift Bernardo Silva strike earned the champions their first Derby victory in five Premier League attempts.
Rafael Varane is expected to be featuring this Sunday against City as he missed out the previous meeting between the two sides due to an injury. David De Gea made some jaw-dropping saves, denying Jesus, Kevin De Bruyne and Cancelo, twice in the first half. It was Cancelo who set up the second goal when his cross was easily received by Bernardo Silva.
United needs to prevent Guardiola’s tactics from manipulating them. Guardiola is a “tactical-genius” and has the capability to bring out the best out of any player. Lately, Phil Foden has been on a scintillating form and scoring the late winner against Everton in their last game-day. United on the other hand, needs to get those three points safely back to Old Trafford as these points will not only help United in securing a top-four spot but also change the scenario of the league. Liverpool is just behind the Manchester City with a three-point gap.
Elanga can play a pivotal role in attacking. His form has been rock-solid lately and seems like he’s hunting for goals. Meanwhile, with Pogba, Bruno, Ronaldo and David De Gea the pressure seems to be quite less for the United fans. Only thing to worry about is the defense. Ragnick made some prominent changes in the last fixture against Watford by bringing Lindelof in Maguire’s position, Alex Telles in Luke Shaw’s position and Elanga in place of Sancho.
Fred’s work-rate and impact on the team goes under the radar as he tries to win the ball back every time, they lose possession. Aaron Wan Bissaka played immensely well against Watford which may lure Ragnick to start him over Diego Dalot in the Manchester Derby.
Match Prediction-
With United’s current run of form and City’s dominating form throughout the season, we could expect United to end this match on a draw with goals expecting from Jadon Sancho(Manchester United) and Bernardo Silva(Manchester City).
Manchester City 1-1 Manchester United
WHEN AND WHERE-
DATE – 6th March, 2022
TIME- 4.30pm GMT / 10.00pm IST
VENUE- Etihad Stadium
