Manchester United will be eyeing a fifth straight victory in the Premier League when they face off against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium today.
The Red Devils suffered back-to-back losses at the beginning of the season, but have since recovered in fantastic fashion with five wins from six outings.
This has included a four-match winning run in the top-flight, and manager Erik ten Hag will be aiming to make a statement by beating City on the road.
United have the opportunity to break into the top four for the first time this campaign if they pick up maximum points from the 188th Manchester Derby.
The club have received a huge injury boost ahead of the encounter with both Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford returning to full training after injuries.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Predicted Line-up:
David de Gea had a rough beginning to the season with a few goalkeeping blunders, but has redeemed himself. The Spaniard continues to remain an undisputed starter in goal despite the speculation over his long-term future at the club.
Diogo Dalot has been transformed under Ten Hag this term, and he was recently superb in the Nations League, scoring twice for Portugal against the Czech Republic. The right-back is another assured starter ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Similarly, no changes are expected at the heart of the backline. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have been on the winning side on the five occasions they have played together. The duo will be eyeing a clean sheet against a potent City attack.
Luke Shaw recently recovered from a foot injury and scored for England in their 3-3 draw against Germany. Despite this, we fancy Ten Hag to stick with Tyrell Malacia at left-back. The Dutchman is better equipped defensively compared to Shaw.
In the centre of the park, Scott McTominay is anticipated to get the nod over Casemiro again. There have been calls from many fans to start Casemiro, but the Brazilian star seems to be adapting to the Premier League and has yet to find his feet.
McTominay, on the other hand, has been a revelation over the past few games with his ability to win regular duels and should get the backing from the manager for the defensive midfield role. Christian Eriksen is expected to partner him. The Dane has been a superb creative presence and will be key to creating chances on the counter-attack.
Antony and Jadon Sancho should feature in the wide attacking positions. Anthony Martial is fit after his Achilles injury, but Ten Hag sees him as a striker. The Frenchman could be handled with caution and he may only get a few minutes off the bench.
Bruno Fernandes started the campaign on a slow note but his form has steadily improved. He is a nailed-on starter for the number 10 position. The only change should be up front with Cristiano Ronaldo being dropped for Marcus Rashford to lead the line.
Ronaldo has yet to score from open play this term and Ten Hag may feel the need for pace to outwit Guardiola’s side. Rashford perfectly suits him in that aspect. The England star has already bagged three goals and two assists for the Red Devils this season.
How Man Utd will line-up vs Man City
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
