Manchester City face off with the arch-rivals Manchester United later today at the Etihad Stadium. Following Liverpool’s late 1-nil win over Nottingham Forest yesterday it’s another must-win game for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The historical MCR rivalry! 🔵🔴
The derby day is different here! 👊
🤝 #AsahiSuperDry pic.twitter.com/10as1rGTDv
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 2, 2024
All derbies are a must-win given the bragging rights at stake but today’s Manchester derby takes on extra significance for City given the state of the title race. A win for Pep Guardiola’s side would put them within one point of Liverpool with a trip to Anfield to come next weekend in the Premier League for the champions.
Here is a look at the injury status of the Manchester City squad ahead of today’s massive Manchester derby.
Manchester City injury news
On the injury front, Pep Guardiola confirmed during his pre-game press conference that Jack Grealish would miss today’s game. The England international suffered a groin injury during City’s 6-2 FA Cup fifth-round tie win over Luton Town. Guardiola also explained that a timeline hasn’t been set for the return of Jack Grealish.
The only other injury concern for the world champions is defender Josko Gvardiol. Gvardiol has been out for several weeks with an ankle ligament injury. He could potentially return to the City lineup today given Pep Guardiola’s previous updates on the condition of the Croatian international.
Predicted Manchester City starting eleven
Ederson: City’s number one keeper should return to the starting lineup after being rested for the Luton Town win. He has been in superb form for late and could have a key role in the derby.
Kyle Walker: It’s a toss-up between Walker or Akanji for the right-back role. I expect Walker to be given the nod given his pace to counter the threat of United on the counter.
John Stones: The England international has been in superb form of late. He was outstanding against Luton Town and should continue his partnership with Ruben Dias today.
Ruben Dias: It appears a given that Dias will start the game today. His partnership with John Stones is a vital ingredient for Pep Guardiola’s side and they should be paired again today.
Nathan Ake: An automatic selection for Pep Guardiola. Ake has been outstanding this season and should start at left-back.
Rodri: Another automatic selection in the City lineup. He should be fresh for today’s game after getting a rare night off against Luton.
Bernardo Silva: Will likely get the nod to midfield with Rodri. His ability in interchange positions across City’s midfield could be invaluable today.
Kevin De Bruyne: De Bruyne was in superb form against Luton. Provided four assists and City will be hoping that his form at Kenilworth Road translates into a big derby performance.
Phil Foden: A big performance from Foden could solidify his place amongst the premier players in the Premier League. Foden should be primed for a big game after a midweek rest.
Matheus Nunes: It’s a toss-up between several players for the left-wing position. I’ve given the nod to Matheus Nunes given he is the closest type of player to Jack Grealish who misses today’s game.
Erling Haaland: City’s number 9 comes into today’s game off the back of scoring 5 goals midweek. Looks back to his best and could be in for a massive game if the service is there.
Calm before the storm! 👊 pic.twitter.com/kU6aKvXVkT
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 2, 2024
