Manchester Derby Preview: City And United Clash Amid Recent Struggles For Bragging Rights

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Manchester City has been experiencing a challenging period, with their latest setback being a 2-0 defeat to Juventus. This marks their seventh loss in ten matches. Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie were instrumental in Juve's victory. City's next challenge is the Manchester derby against United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

United recently secured a morale-boosting 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League, thanks to Rasmus Hojlund's heroics. However, both Manchester teams are struggling and eager for a Premier League victory. Despite recent struggles, City remains favourites, winning 57% of Opta's supercomputer simulations, while United has a 22.2% chance of winning.

The supercomputer predicts a bottom-half finish for United, who are currently 13th. City's chances of retaining the title are slim at 3.8%. Historically, United has lost more Premier League games to City than any other team except Arsenal. They have also lost their last three away games against City, conceding 13 goals.

City has won five of their last six Premier League encounters with United, more than in their previous 13 meetings. However, United defeated City in last season's FA Cup final, providing Erik ten Hag with some respite.

City's defensive solidity has waned since late October. They have conceded at least twice in seven of their last 11 league matches, matching the number from their previous 62 games. Only Southampton, Chelsea, and Ipswich Town have made more errors leading to shots this season.

Ruben Dias' absence has been felt; City lost all three league games without him this season but only one out of twelve when he played. With Dias, they concede an average of 1.1 goals per game; without him, it's 2.7.

Amorim's Challenge

Ruben Amorim aims to avoid losing three consecutive league matches as United manager. He previously led Sporting CP to a 4-1 victory over City in the Champions League before joining United. Alan Pardew is the only manager to beat reigning Premier League champions with two different teams in one season.

Amorim must address United's vulnerability to set-pieces; they've conceded 39% of their goals from corners this season. In 2024 alone, they've allowed 15 goals from corners.

Key Players

Erling Haaland is crucial for City against United; he has nine goal involvements in four Premier League appearances against them (six goals, three assists). Bruno Fernandes is vital for United; he has six goal involvements in his last six league games and five against City across competitions recently.

This derby presents an opportunity for both teams to regain form and confidence as they navigate a challenging season ahead.