Three Crucial Showdowns That Could Determine the Outcome of Man City vs Man Utd
The Manchester derby has typically been quite lopsided in recent times, but the showdown on Sunday is set to be different.
Manchester United have frequently approached this match with lackluster form over the last few seasons, but their neighbors, Manchester City, are also experiencing a challenging period as the Red Devils make their way to the Etihad Stadium.
A clash filled with uncertainties awaits, yet it features some of the most gifted players in the game. The attacking abilities on display are particularly striking, despite the recent struggles in defense for both Manchester clubs.
Here are three pivotal matchups that could determine the outcome of the Manchester derby.
Kevin De Bruyne vs Manuel Ugarte
Kevin De Bruyne’s recent comeback has been the only silver lining in an extremely disappointing phase for Man City. Indeed, their sole victory in the last ten matches can be attributed to a standout show from the Belgian against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Time and again, we’ve seen this influential midfielder shine on significant occasions, and Man City will rely heavily on his creativity at the Etihad.
The player facing off against De Bruyne for the entire match will be Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte, who has had a rather unremarkable start to his Man Utd tenure. However, the gritty midfielder has appeared more lively since the return of his old coach Ruben Amorim, making Sunday’s match the ultimate test of his abilities.
Ugarte’s tenacity and commitment to tackle will be crucial for Man Utd’s defense against the playmaker, with Kobbie Mainoo needing to support Ugarte whenever feasible.
Ilkay Gundogan vs Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes has frequently been the beacon of hope for Man Utd during tough times, and this pattern has continued in recent weeks. The Portuguese midfielder appears reenergized since November, currently ranking highest in his team for creativity in the Premier League. He holds the top spot for combined goals and assists (8) as well as for most big chances created (9).
With Rodri absent – a major factor in Man City’s alarming dip over the last few months – Fernandes might be the key to breaching an unsettled Man City back line. Ilkay Gundogan will work to neutralize him, yet the German has often shown defensive vulnerabilities this season and has found it challenging to keep up with top-tier attacking midfielders due to his aging frame.
Containing Fernandes will be crucial for Man City.
Erling Haaland vs Matthijs de Ligt
Erling Haaland has been unexpectedly wasteful lately, but the Norwegian continues to achieve commendable stats. He boasts nine goals in his last nine appearances for both club and country, even if his performance levels have dipped.
In theory, Haaland should have a productive day facing a Man Utd defense that has been prone to mistakes. The Red Devils have recently engaged in self-destructive play and players like Andre Onana, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt have faced criticism. The latter will have the responsibility of physically keeping up with Haaland this Sunday.
The Dutch full-back has encountered a shaky start to the season and his time at Old Trafford, with Haaland ready to capitalize on any missed opportunities. The striker managed to score both home and away in their previous encounters when De Ligt was with Bayern Munich.
