Over the last few years, Manchester City have become the No. 1 club in Manchester, following several league and domestic cups. The two Manchester clubs clash this Sunday at Old Trafford in the Premier League. While City are 15 points ahead of United on the league table, form and standings in the league table will hold little significance in the Manchester derby.
The last time these two sides faced off in the league, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team won the game 2-1, much to the surprise of most fans. The Red Devils have been disappointing this season, but it seems like their campaign has finally kickstarted post the January transfer window.
Ahead of the match, let’s take a look at 3 players to watch out for in the Manchester derby:
Bruno Fernandes
One of the main reasons for United’s upturn in form is January signing, Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese international has been influential over the last few games and has already racked up 3 goals and 2 assists in all competitions. Fernandes’ vision, passing, and goalscoring ability will be a huge threat for Manchester City’s defence, which has been fragile the entire season.
Fernandes could be given a free role in the match, behind the strikers, and his movement could cause some trouble to the opposition.
Kevin de Bruyne
The big worry for Manchester City fans and manager Pep Guardiola ahead of the derby is the fitness of their star playmaker Kevin de Bruyne. The Belgian international has a shoulder injury, which caused him to miss the FA Cup clash, but he should be fit for the derby.
The midfielder has been in tremendous form this season, making 17 assists in the league, as well as scoring 8 goals. His accurate deliveries into the box could catch out Manchester United, whose goalkeeper, David de Gea, has not been in great form lately.
Sergio Aguero
Manchester City’s talismanic striker Sergio Aguero loves the Manchester derby. The veteran striker has scored 9 times in 12 Manchester derbies and will be a key player for Guardiola this Sunday. Aguero comes into this game in good form having scored in the Carabao Cup final win against Aston Villa, as well as the FA Cup game against Sheffield Wednesday.
His movement, quick bursts of pace, as well as his exceptional finishing ability could be a worry for Harry Maguire and co.