Manchester Derby: A Pivotal Clash Amidst Shared Struggles
As Manchester City and Manchester United prepare to face off at the Etihad Stadium, both teams seek a crucial victory to rejuvenate their seasons amidst recent downturns.
The upcoming Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium presents a critical juncture for both Manchester City and Manchester United. Each side is grappling with challenges, making this encounter a potential turning point.
Manchester City's Recent Form
Under Pep Guardiola, City has experienced an uncharacteristic slump, suffering seven defeats in their last ten matches. Their latest setback was a 2-0 loss to Juventus, where goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie highlighted City's defensive frailties.
Manchester United's Position
Meanwhile, United, led by Ruben Amorim, approaches the derby following a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League, with Rasmus Højlund playing a pivotal role. However, domestically, United has suffered consecutive league defeats and risks a third, a scenario not seen since December 2015 under Louis van Gaal. Notably, Amorim has never endured three straight losses in his managerial career.
Amorim's Unique Opportunity
Earlier this season, Amorim's Sporting CP triumphed 4-1 over City in the Champions League, marking his final European match with the Portuguese club. He now has the chance to become only the second manager, after Alan Pardew in the 2014-2015 season, to defeat the reigning Premier League champions with two different teams in a single season.
Defensive Concerns
City's defense has been porous, conceding at least two goals in seven of their last eleven league matches—a stark contrast to their previous 62 games. United faces its own defensive challenges, with 39% of their conceded goals this season originating from corners, the highest proportion in the league. Additionally, goalkeeper André Onana has been under scrutiny for errors leading directly to goals, including a mishap against Viktoria Plzen.
Key Players to Watch
For United, captain Bruno Fernandes has rediscovered his form, contributing three goals and three assists in his last six league appearances. He has also been directly involved in five goals in his recent six matches against City across all competitions.
City's hopes may rest on striker Erling Haaland, who boasts an impressive record against United with six goals and three assists in four Premier League derbies. Only Sergio Agüero, with eight derby goals, surpasses Haaland's tally for City.
Historical Context
United has suffered 20 Premier League defeats to City, second only to their 21 losses against Arsenal. The Red Devils have lost their last three league meetings with City, conceding 13 goals in the process. The last time United endured four consecutive league defeats to their neighbors was between 1952 and 1955. City has won five of the last six Premier League encounters with United, a significant improvement over their previous 13 meetings.