Guardiola’s City Stumble Ahead of United Clash
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City endured a frustrating week, salvaging a point against Crystal Palace last weekend before suffering a midweek Champions League defeat to Juventus. The loss dealt a significant blow to their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages and extended their dismal form, with just one win in their last 10 matches across all competitions, including seven defeats.
Among those losses was a crushing 4-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon, orchestrated by none other than Rúben Amorim, now steering the Manchester United ship. As City prepare to host United at the Etihad on Sunday, the pressure is mounting to reverse their fortunes.
Injury Updates and Selection Headaches for City
City’s only silver lining is the lack of fresh injuries from their trip to Italy. However, they remain without the influential Rodri, though Mateo Kovačić has resumed training and could return to the midfield this weekend.
Rico Lewis’s suspension, following a red card at Selhurst Park, will necessitate changes to Guardiola’s lineup. Additionally, Guardiola faces a tough call in goal, having benched Ederson in favor of Stefan Ortega for recent Premier League fixtures. The Spaniard seems likely to stick with Ortega for the high-stakes derby.
Optimism Wanes at United
While Rúben Amorim’s appointment initially sparked hope at Old Trafford, United’s momentum has stalled with consecutive league losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest. Adding to the uncertainty, Dan Ashworth’s unexpected departure has disrupted the club’s stability.
In Thursday’s Europa League outing against Viktoria Plzeň, United secured a nervy victory, thanks to Rasmus Højlund’s brace off the bench and an energetic display from Amad Diallo in attack. Mason Mount also made a notable impact as a substitute, replacing the ineffective Joshua Zirkzee, and may have earned himself a starting spot for the derby.
United’s Squad Boost
United’s injury list is finally easing, with Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelöf returning to action. Luke Shaw remains their sole absentee, leaving Amorim with more options as he looks to end United’s two-game Premier League skid.
Predicted Starting XIs
Manchester City XI:
Ortega; Walker, Dias, Aké, Gvardiol; Bernardo, Gündoğan, Savio; De Bruyne, Doku, Haaland
Manchester United XI:
Onana; Yoro, De Ligt, Martínez, Mazraoui; Mainoo, Ugarte, Dalot; Diallo, Fernandes, Højlund
With both teams desperate for a turnaround, the Manchester derby promises high drama. United will aim to exploit City’s vulnerabilities, while Guardiola’s side will look to rediscover their form and restore confidence at the Etihad.
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