The Premier League roars back into action with one of its biggest fixtures as Manchester City and Manchester United face off at the Etihad Stadium. For Pep Guardiola’s side, the build-up has been far from ideal. City head into the derby on the back of two consecutive league defeats ,something that hasn’t happened this early in a season since 2004/05, Softfootball reports
Their three points from three games is the lowest return ever for a Guardiola-managed side, and another slip here would equal a nightmare milestone not seen since their 1995/96 relegation campaign. Still, despite injuries piling up, City will lean on the Etihad factor, where they had put together five straight Premier League wins before last month’s setback against Tottenham. Guardiola will know that a big response is needed to steady the mood among the champions.
One name the hosts may look to is young Oscar Bobb, whose knack for late goals could prove decisive in a tense atmosphere. For United, Bruno Fernandes will again be central, having scored in each of their last three league wins over City.
Confirmed Manchester City XI to face Manchester United posted by the team’s official X handle, see below;
On the other side of the city, Manchester United arrive with a curious sense of momentum despite the chaos that continues to follow them. Ruben Amorim’s men sit above City in the table, a fact that will surprise many given their inconsistency. United’s last outing before the international break was a dramatic 3-2 win over Burnley, rescued by a stoppage-time penalty.
While it was far from convincing, the victory helped bury the embarrassment of their earlier EFL Cup shock against Grimsby. Still, Amorim’s Premier League record doesn’t inspire too much confidence just eight wins from 30 games , with half of those coming against newly-promoted clubs. For United, the derby is not just about bragging rights; it’s about proving they can deliver on the big stage under their new boss.
The Etihad has often provided fireworks in this fixture, and recent history suggests it could go either way. City have won five of the last eight Premier League derbies, but United have been stubborn in recent clashes, avoiding defeat in their last four meetings across all competitions.
Manchester United Confirmed Lineup to face Manchester City posted via the team’s official X handle, see below;
Injuries could play a huge role too .City would be missing up to six defenders, including John Stones, while Omar Marmoush is also sidelined. United aren’t at full strength either, with Matheus Cunha, Diogo Dalot and Mason Mount ruled out.
