Only one point separates Manchester United and their once called “noisy neighbours”. A lot has changed since last season, when the apparent demise of the red part was in full contrast with championship aspirations of the local rivals.
Last season, City marched to their second title in three years, as Pellegrini’s completely outclassed and destroyed “The Devils” in a 3-0 rout. The lowest point, however came after the game when David Moyes, proclaimed that United should strive to “be like City”.
A year has passed from that day and a lot has changed. Manchester United have hired a new manager, who realises the significance of local derbies, beating Liverpool on two occasions. At the press conference on Friday, Van Gaal once again reiterated the importance of the game not for the current standings alone, but to stop the losing streak that stretches to almost five games.
United have been doing well recently beating Tottenham, Liverpool and Aston Villa. A set formation and first eleven led to impressive performances and climb to the third position in the standings, a point above City.
The champions on the other hand have been in turmoil. From title challengers, they have to now look behind their back with unsure of Champions League qualifications. Recent results have prompted rumours about squad overhauling, underperforming stars and change of manager.
Manuel Pelegrinni seemed very relaxed in his press-conference, not concerned for his position. For him and his team, the derby is once again a proving ground – not just for this season, but for the seasons ahead. Some of the players might be even fighting for their places.
Team News:
Van Persie trained with his team-mates for the first time this week since he suffered an ankle injury against Swansea on February 21, but he will not be risked as manager Louis van Gaal does not believe he is match fit.
Defender Jonny Evans is suspended, Luke Shaw is out with a hamstring problem, Chris Smalling is a doubt through illness and midfielder Andreas Pereira is away with the Brazil Under-20 side.
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is doubtful for Sunday’s derby with a hamstring injury. Kompany felt the muscle tighten during Monday’s Barclays Premier League defeat at Crystal Palace and will undergo a fitness test. Strikers Wilfried Bony (ankle/knee) and Stevan Jovetic are also out, as is defender Dedryck Boyata (knee).
Predicted Line-ups:
Manchester United (4-5-1): DDG; Valencia, Jones, Rojo, Blind; Carrick, Feillani, Herrera, Mata, Young; Rooney
Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Hart; Zabaleta,Demichellis ,Company,Clichy; Toure,Fernandinho; Navas,Milner,Silva; Aguero
Last Meeting: Manchester City: Manchester United 1:0
A red card by Smalling in the first half seemingly gave City the upper hand. However a goal by Sergio Aguero, was nearly overturned by a late Rooney surge. The disappointing defeat by City was heartfelt by United with 10 men, which spurned some good performances from the team then on – six straight wins.
Van Gaal would suddenly hope to record his first Manchester derby win, which could lead to the reds having upper hand in finishing above their local rivals.
Do not forget to leave your match prediction in the comments box below
Follow Old Trafford Faithful on Twitter for more Manchester United news.
Be the first to comment