Manchester United has every chance of going on top of the table next week in the league and the kind of form they are currently in makes them look destined for great things this season.
The Manchester Derby was a dull affair the last time but with a spot in the finals of the EFL on the line it looks like we could have a great game on our hands as both of the Manchester teams are in fine form.
Guardiola’s side has shown a better defensive record this season but is struggling to penetrate defences like they used to do in previous seasons as David Silva was a key figure of that dynamic midfield.
Eric Baily’s return to the team has been instrumental to the side as he has put in some great performances and ensured that his side has got all three points in their recent outings.
Most of the games surround the talismanic midfielders of both sides in Bruno Fernandes and Kevin De Bruyne. Solskjaer’s side has been in a rich vein of form and their confidence is riding high.
WHEN AND WHERE?
Date – 6 January Thursday
Time – 8:45 PM BST
Venue – Old Trafford
TEAM NEWS
Eric Bailly has done a fantastic job in replacing Victor Lindelof and it seems that they have sorted out all their defensive woes as of now.
There isn’t news of any major injury that should disrupt the dressing room and the unavailability of Edison Cavani who is facing a 3-match ban is the only worrying factor.
RECENT FORM
Manchester United form: W-W-D-W-W
Manchester City form: D-W-W-W-W
KEY BATTLE
Bruno Fernandes vs Kevin de Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne’s influence on any game can never be taken lightly as Man City have become even more dependent on him since the departure of David Silva.
He commands the Midfield and can thread the ball through the eye of the needle and with recent talks of a contract extension De Bruyne will be even more pumped to show his prowess.
This and the other domestic cup maybe Manchester City’s only hope of silverware this season so you can expect them to come out all guns blazing.
MATCH PREDICTION
Solskjaer’s men are in fine form and have enjoyed a fine patch of form. The Manchester Derby seems to be perfectly poised as both the teams are coming on the back of a string of good wins which should give them greater momentum to attack with full force. The last time around the Derby ended in a sad 0-0 draw and we hope that we get to see a bit more intent this time around.
Manchester United looks unbeatable right now and the odds look poised in their favour but we hope they do not falter at this crucial stage of the competition as they did last year.
