The 196th Manchester derby is a key Premier League match in gameweek 31. Both Manchester United and Manchester City, having had less than stellar seasons, are looking to finish strong.
For Manchester United, with little left to play for in the league, their focus might be split with the upcoming Europa League quarterfinal. Securing European football next season is crucial for them as they currently sit in the lower half of the table.
Manchester City faces significant pressure to maintain their Champions League qualification. The absence of their top scorer, Erling Haaland, for potentially the rest of the season adds to their challenge. Despite a recent win against Leicester City, this derby against United will be a tougher test for Pep Guardiola`s team. Guardiola has a strong record at Old Trafford and another win would boost City`s momentum.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, April 6
- Location: Old Trafford, Manchester, United Kingdom
Previous Encounter
The last match at the Etihad Stadium was decided by Amad Diallo. After City took the lead through Josko Gvardiol, Diallo turned the game around. He won a penalty converted by Bruno Fernandes and then scored the winning goal himself with a sharp finish.
Manager Insights
Manchester United Manager
Despite a recent defeat to Nottingham Forest, Manchester United`s manager, Amorim, believes the team is progressing. He highlights improvements in their playing style, chance creation, and game domination, even though results haven`t always reflected this. He acknowledges the season`s inconsistent nature and focuses on continued improvement.
Manchester City Manager
Pep Guardiola emphasizes the importance of every remaining game for Manchester City. Having secured back-to-back wins, he knows maintaining momentum is vital, especially with other teams like Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Brighton competing for top spots.
“Eight games left,” Guardiola stated, “Every game is vital.”
Projected Starting Lineups
Manchester United
Andre Onana; Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs De Ligt, Leny Yoro; Diogo Dalot, Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu; Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee; Rasmus Hojlund
Manchester City
Ederson; Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, Abdukodir Khusanov, Josko Gvardiol; Nico Gonzalez, Ilkay Gundogan; Savinho, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku; Omar Marmoush
Key Storyline
Alejandro Garnacho`s Shooting
Since Amorim became manager, Garnacho takes a high volume of shots. However, his expected goals (xG) are relatively low, suggesting shot selection could be improved. While his eagerness to shoot is a positive trait for a young player, the quality of those shots needs refinement.
Player Spotlight
Jack Grealish
Jack Grealish recently scored his first league goal in over a year and performed well in a central attacking midfield role. His ability to drive forward and shoot was evident. It remains to be seen if he will retain his place in the team, with Phil Foden also vying for a starting spot.
Match Prediction
Manchester United often puts up a fight against City at Old Trafford, even in defeat. However, Manchester City`s quality is expected to prevail.
Prediction: Manchester United 0, Manchester City 1
