The stage is set for a thrilling Manchester derby on Sunday, December 15, 2024, as Manchester City host Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium. Both teams enter this match under pressure, with City struggling to find form and United battling for consistency.
Team News
Manchester City will be without key defender Rico Lewis, who is suspended following a red card against Crystal Palace. Manager Pep Guardiola faces a defensive crisis, with only three senior defenders available as injuries continue to plague the squad. Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji are all sidelined, leading Guardiola to consider using midfielders in defensive roles. On a positive note, Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic have returned to training and could bolster the squad for this crucial clash.
For Manchester United, head coach Ruben Amorim has reported no fresh injury concerns, providing a slight advantage. Veteran defender Jonny Evans is back in training and may feature, while Luke Shaw remains unavailable. However, United’s recent performances have been lackluster, and they will need to find a way to break their poor away form against their city rivals.
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Historically, the recent meetings have favored Manchester City, with United losing five of the last six Premier League encounters. The Red Devils have struggled at the Etihad, losing their past three visits there, and have not experienced four consecutive league losses to City since 1955.
City’s season has seen a dramatic decline in form, winning just once in their last ten matches across all competitions and conceding at least two goals in seven of their last eleven league games. With only 27 points from 15 matches, they find themselves in their worst position at this stage since 2010.
Conversely, Manchester United’s struggles have been evident as well, with 19 points from 15 fixtures marking their lowest tally since 1986. They are at risk of suffering three consecutive league defeats for the first time since 2022, and their set-piece defense has been particularly vulnerable, conceding a significant portion of their goals from corners this season.
Key Players to Watch
For City, Erling Haaland remains a crucial figure. The striker has a phenomenal record in Manchester derbies, scoring six goals and assisting three in four appearances against United. His ability to capitalize on defensive lapses could be pivotal in this match.
On the other side, Alejandro Garnacho is a player to watch for United. He aims to become the first United player to score in three consecutive Manchester derbies since Paul Scholes, and his pace and skill on the wing could exploit City’s makeshift defense.
Conclusion
With both teams facing challenges, this Manchester derby promises to be a fiercely contested match. The outcome could have significant implications for both squads, influencing their morale and momentum as they navigate the rest of the season. Expect an electric atmosphere as City and United clash once again, with pride and points on the line.
