Sabasports Match Preview
Premier League: Manchester United vs Manchester City
Kickoff Time: 2023-10-29 23:30 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/MOLLY DARLINGTON
The upcoming round of the Premier League features the highly
anticipated Manchester Derby.Manchester United have recently experienced a rebound with three
consecutive victories. While winning is undoubtedly positive, it appears that
they have faced challenges during the matches. The forwards have collectively
struggled, and there have been instances of wastefulness in front of goal. In
the midweek Champions League match, both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho
scored a goal each but missed other scoring opportunities in a careless manner.
Rashford’s decision-making, including a reluctance to pass and cross, has
started to impact the performance of his strike partner Rasmus Hojlund.
According to statistics, Manchester United’s seven forwards have contributed
only one goal after nine rounds of the league. Instead, it has been substituted
players coming off the bench who have frequently made a difference. Currently,
the burden of creativity in Manchester United’s midfield primarily rests on
Bruno Fernandes. If Fernandes is tightly marked and neutralised, it
significantly reduces their offensive capabilities.
Source:REUTERS/STEFAN WERMUTH
In the last round, Manchester City welcomed the return of Rodri and
secured a victory against Brighton, thus avoiding the predicament of three
consecutive league defeats. This win has helped them regain the confidence they
had during their successful campaign for the Triple Crown last season. Rodri’s
strength lies in his ability to receive and distribute the ball effectively,
even under pressure from opponents. He is known for delivering precise long
passes to the full-backs and serves as an indispensable presence in the
midfield and backline, acting as a metronome. Unfortunately, center-back Manuel
Akanji received a red card in the previous game and will be suspended for the
upcoming match. Considering Manchester United’s strength on the wings, it is
anticipated that Manager Pep Guardiola might proactively switch to a four-back
formation. Manchester City made some reservations in midweek, rested star
players such as Bernardo Silva, Julian Alvarez, and Phil Foden, whose value at
more than 80 million euros. So their physical fitness is not expected to be a
factor affecting their performance.
Manchester City are known for their ability to dismantle opposing
defences through their passing and control, showcasing a scattered offensive
power. On the other hand, it is believed that Manchester United’s best chance
to compete with them lies in executing effective counterattacks. However, due
to perceived weaknesses in Manchester United’s striker position, it is
anticipated that they may struggle to seize opportunities when they arise. As a
result, in this derby match, Manchester City are seen as having a greater
chance of emerging victorious.
Manchester United’s Last 5 Games: WWWLL
23-10-25 Manchester United 1-0 FC Copenhagen
23-10-22 Sheffield United 1-2 Manchester United
23-10-07 Manchester United 2-1 Brentford
23-10-04 Manchester United 2-3 Galatasaray
23-09-30 Manchester United 0-1 Crystal Palace
Manchester City’s Last 5 Games: WWLWL
23-10-26 Young Boys 1-3 Manchester City
23-10-21 Manchester City 2-1 Brighton
23-10-08 Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City
23-10-05 RB Leipzig 1-3 Manchester City
23-09-30 Wolves 2-1 Manchester City
Head To Head Record:
23-06-03 Manchester City 2-1 Manchester United
23-01-14 Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City
22-10-02 Manchester City 6-3 Manchester United
22-03-07 Manchester City 4-1 Manchester United
21-11-06 Manchester United 0-2 Manchester City
Prediction: Manchester City to
win