The Manchester derby will be decided by the performances and moments of the outstanding factors.
5. Andre Onana vs Ederson Moraes
The wooden frame battle promises to become a notable hot spot in the upcoming Manchester derby. In Man United’s wooden frame, Andre Onana will definitely start if he does not suffer an unexpected injury. Despite the unimpressive start, the Cameroonian star still earned the full trust of coach Erik ten Hag.
Speaking before the key match, Ten Hag shared: “The team gives Onana trust. Look at the achievements he has accomplished in the colors of big teams. He possesses qualities and skills. “.
On the other side of the line, Ederson became the number 1 choice for Pep Guardiola. The Brazilian goalkeeper is considered a perfect piece in Man City’s tactical system with an impressive set of footwork and passing skills.
The performances from Onana and Ederson greatly influenced the ability of the two Manchester teams to keep clean sheets. At present, Ederson is rated higher than his colleague on the Red Devils side.
4. Bruno Fernandes vs Rodri
Fernandes is a key link in Man United’s midfield. The Portuguese midfielder plays the role of leading the play, creating, scoring goals and creating assists. On his best day, Fernandes promises to become a constant threat to Man City’s defense system.
On the other side of the front line, Rodri is an irreplaceable factor in Man City’s midfield. The Spanish midfielder is responsible for recovering the ball, pressing, and intercepting.
Fernandes will face a difficult test called Rodri. The fierce battle in the midfield greatly determines the situation and the outcome of the great battle.
3. Diogo Dalot vs Jeremy Doku
Doku is one of the few rookies who have impressed this season for Man City. The Belgian winger brings a lot of boldness and suddenness in situations where he clings to the edge and rises high. A convincing performance helped Doku knock Jack Grealish off the bench.
Put on a comparison scale, Doku possesses greater speed and breakthrough than Grealish. Man United’s defense system needs to be especially careful with Doku. The task of closely marking the Man City players was placed on Dalot’s shoulders.
Dalot became the first choice at right-back when Aaron Wan-Bissaka was absent due to injury. It is likely that Ten Hag will ask Dalot to limit his advance to avoid Doku exploiting the space behind him.
2. Rasmus Hojlund vs Ruben Dias
Fans hope Hojlund can soon scored in the Premier League. The Danish striker has become the number 1 choice in the central striker position since arriving at Old Trafford. The former Atalanta star possesses many qualities needed in a top number 9.
“Man United’s full-backs need to push high, or put the ball into the penalty area and Hojlund will take advantage of that,” Rio Ferdinand shared. If Hojlund plays sublimely, Man City’s defense will face big trouble.
Man City fans turned their eyes to Ruben Dias with the hope that the Portuguese center-back could lock down Hojlund. Dias is considered an important factor for Man City for many seasons. The confrontation between Hojlund and Dias becomes a notable hot spot in the upcoming Manchester derby.
1. Raphael Varane vs Erling Haaland
Despite Harry Maguire’s good performance recently, Varane is still considered the leading ‘rock’ in front of Onana’s wooden goal. Varane’s talent, class, and battle prowess need to be promoted when facing Man City.
Varane’s upcoming opponent is Haaland. The Norwegian striker is strong enough to tear open Onana’s net if Man United’s defense plays carelessly. Will Varane’s experience or Haaland’s youth win?