Preview: Manchester United Vs Man City: Kick-off Time and Team News

Manchester United is gearing up for the 191st local derby against their fierce rivals, Manchester City, with hopes of continuing their recent winning streak. Despite their victories in the last three matches across various competitions, United is well aware that an improved performance will be necessary against the formidable Blues.

In their recent UEFA Champions League encounter against FC Copenhagen, United managed to secure a crucial victory. However, it was not without its fair share of drama. The match concluded with an intense penalty save by Andre Onana, sealing the win for Erik ten Hag’s side in the dying moments of the Group A clash. Sergio Reguilon and Raphael Varane were included in the starting XI for that game, but Casemiro, who missed the European fixture due to suspension, is now eligible to play. However, his involvement remains uncertain as he sustained a knock while on international duty with Brazil.

During a pre-match press conference, Ten Hag addressed the situation, stating, “Case is a race against the clock. He is not 100 percent.” In an interview with the club’s media, the manager further explained, “He will do everything he can to be part of it, to start the game, but we have to see. We have some hours to go.” On a positive note, right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka has resumed training and is gradually working his way back to full fitness. Unfortunately, Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, and Amad are still sidelined for the Reds.

Turning to Manchester City’s team news, manager Pep Guardiola will have to cope without the services of playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, who is currently sidelined due to injury, and defender Manuel Akanji, who is serving a suspension. While there were slight concerns over the fitness of England international Phil Foden, who suffered a knock, he did come off the bench in City’s 3-1 victory over Young Boys in the Champions League. Guardiola expressed satisfaction with Jack Grealish’s recent performance in Switzerland but noted that the midfielder has not started a league game since August. Rodri’s return from suspension has provided a boost to City, who currently sit two points behind Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League table.

Speaking about the upcoming match, Guardiola acknowledged the challenge posed by Manchester United, saying, “United are always a tough, tough opponent. We know the quality they have, there is no doubt about that.”

As the stage is set for the highly anticipated Manchester derby, fans from both sides eagerly await the clash between these historic rivals. With both teams aiming to secure victory, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter that will undoubtedly captivate football enthusiasts worldwide.