Man United dropped points yet again in the Premier League as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Crystal Palace in midweek. And things could get even worse as they will now face Man City on Sunday.
The Red Devils are undefeated in their last 21 away matches in the Premier League but that record could very well be under threat as City are on a superb run of form themselves.
Man United have as many as seven injuries going into this game but still, they will need to pick up all three points if they wish to remain in the Premier League title challenge.
Manchester United have kept a clean sheet in 5 of their last 7 away matches in the league but the OT outfit will really have to play out of their skins to keep City at bay at the Etihad. United’s form has seen a dip in recent weeks but they have still managed to remain in the top six. But they will need to pull up their socks pretty soon so as to prevent teams like Chelsea and West Ham United from catching up with them.
Man United team news vs Man City:
De Gea has been given time off by Solskjaer to return to Spain for the birth of his child meaning Dean Henderson will remain in goal at the Etihad.
Eric Bailly partnered Maguire in central defence vs Palace but he will be replaced by Victor Lindelof while the rest of the defensive line-up remains unchanged.
Nemanja Matic will make way for Scott McTominay in central midfield on Sunday but since Paul Pogba is still out injured, Fred will once again get a start.
Bruno Fernandes was underwhelming against Palace and his performance vs the top-six sides have been really poor also. This is why some pundits want Ole to take the gamble of resting the Portuguese and to use Donny van de Beek instead(if he is fit). But we are sure the Man United boss will not be willing to take that risk.
Anthony Martial picked up a small knee injury in training earlier this week and he will have to go through a late fitness test to see if he is ready or not. Ole does not have too much to worry about since Edinson Cavani was is anyways going to lead the line on Sunday vs City.
Daniel James has been performing really well in the past few weeks and it will not be a surprise if Ole chooses to name him in the first XI just to use his pace to unlock the City defence.
Marcus Rashford had a poor outing in midweek but with Martial likely to miss out, Solskjaer will undoubtedly name the England international on the left wing.
Stats via Whoscored.
