Manchester United vs Manchester City: Preview and Predictions
Manchester United vs Manchester City. Possibly the most heated and competitive derby in all of English football. It’s the Manchester Derby. Its Red vs Blue. It’s United vs City.
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With the importance of this match heightened by the derby, the added pressure of a top four finish will only intensify this match. Both groups of supporter’s will be looking to get one over on their hated rivals.
While the animosity between the supporters will be at the breaking point, the pressure on the players will continue to grow right up till kickoff.
Manchester United will look to continue their upward swing, having just passed Manchester City in the table. The rise to third also marks the first time since last season that United have topped Manchester City at any point in the table.
The Red Devils are also coming into this match on a very good stretch of form. Louis Van Gaal’s side has won their last five matches in a row, and have suffered only one defeat in the last ten Premier League matches.
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While their red rivals come into this match in the side’s best form in the last two seasons, Manchester City are having its worst run since Manuel Pellegrini took over as manager. Failing to win a single trophy this season after winning the Premier League last year has put the Chilean the hot seat.
Losing both Champions League Round of 16 matches to Barcelona as well as the sides last loss against Crystal Palace have put Manchester City in danger — not immediate danger mind you — of missing out on Champions League football next season.
Manchester City will be desperate to get back to their winning ways, and clinch a spot in the Premier League’s top four. Though seven points clear of Liverpool and Tottenham, a poor run of results in the next few matches could allow for both sides to close the gap, something City must not allow.
Key Stats
- Manchester City have won their last four matches against United.
- Manchester City have won the last three derby matches at Old Trafford.
- Manchester United have won their last five consecutive matches.
- City’s Sergio Agüero sits third in the Premier Leagues goal scoring charts.
Players to Watch
Manchester United are looking to break a four match losing streak against their rivals in this match. The side has also lost the last three matches at Old Trafford to their hated rivals.
If United are to compete in this match, Louis Van Gaal will need to see a strong performance from newcomer Daley Blind. A relative unknown at the start of the season, Blind has forced himself into picture thanks to some great performances for the side.
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Red Devil Armada
Pulling the strings out of the midfield will be tough against City. Blind will be expected to setup the attack against the Sky Blues, feeding passes to the attackers in order to breakdown the defense.
The young Dutchman will also be expected to get back on defense, anchoring the Red Devils midfield in both the attack and defense. For such a youngster, one has to wonder how he will take the pressure of this Manchester Derby match.
On the other side of the pitch, Manchester City will need a strong effort from their top attacking threat. Sitting third in the Premier League’s goal scoring charts, Sergio Agüero will need to be in top form for the Sky Blues to continue their current run against United.
With a great midfield behind him, Agüero’s only task will be that of finding a way to score goals. If the Argentine International can find a way to break down the Red Devil defense, expect City’s current run to continue against their hated rivals.
This match could be one of the most important matches of the year. Not only is it a battle within the top four, it is also the Manchester Derby. With both clubs fighting for supremacy over their city, every soccer fan in the world will benefit.
Its red vs blue. Good vs Evil, depending which side you are on. It’s Manchester United vs Manchester City in a top four clash. How much better could it get?
Manchester United — 2, Manchester City — 2
Match of the Week Predictions
United will steal this one. 1-0 — Lou Flavius