Manchester City take on arch-rivals Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday. Following their 6-2 FA Cup fifth-round win over Luton Town the champions will head into the derby without Jack Grealish.
Unfortunately, Jack Grealish suffered another groin injury at Kenilworth Road. With Grealish likely ruled out of the derby who could replace him on the left wing? Pep Guardiola has several options. Here is a look at who they are and what they could bring to the role for Sunday’s Manchester derby.
Jeremy Doku
The Belgian international does appear a prime candidate to start against United. Doku has played on the left wing for the champions for the majority of the season. His pace and dribbling ability have the potential to cause the Manchester United defence headaches at the Etihad Stadium.
Doku’s selection may also depend on whether Pep Guardiola decides to focus on controlling Sunday’s game. If Guardiola leans that way Doku may be an option off the bench.
Matheus Nunes
The Portuguese international has played on both wings in City’s last two games. He played on the left wing with good effect during his team’s 1-nil over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. Matheus Nunes may be the closest alternative to Jack Grealish in his squad.
Matheus Nunes has shown he can play on either wing in Manchester City’s last two games. He could get the opportunity to make his make on a bigger stage this Sunday.
Oscar Bobb
City’s Norwegian starlet recently signed a long-term contract extension with the world champions. With that in mind, he would be eager to make a mark against City’s local rivals.
Bobby has played on the left wing earlier this season. His game does appear well suited to City’s gameplan and he could make a mark on the big occasion if required.
Sunday’s derby could be the ideal platform for Bobb to show what the future holds for Manchester City if he is given the nod to start at the Etihad.
Bernardo Silva or Phil Foden
There are two tried and trusted alternatives for the left wing for Pep Guardiola. Both Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden have successfully fulfilled the role when required. It would also be no surprise to see the tried and trusted options being preferred in such a big game.
The only obstacle to either playing on the left wing is their strong form in the centre of the pitch of late. Foden and Bernardo have both hit their straps in the midfield and Guardiola could prefer to keep them in the middle of the action.
