Erik ten Hag has admitted that the absence of injured defensive midfielder Rodri will have a ‘huge impact’ on bitter-rivals Manchester City.
The Red Devils are preparing to take on their noisy neighbours at the Etihad stadium in what is one of the most exciting Manchester derbies in recent seasons. With both teams looking to close in on the top of the Premier League table, Sunday’s mouth-watering encounter will undoubtedly be an enthralling fixture.
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However, despite having incredible quality in depth, Pep Guardiola was handed a blow on Saturday after Rodri picked up an injury and has been sidelined for Sunday’s derby.
Speaking to Sky Sports before kick-off, ten Hag, when quizzed over Rodri’s absence, said: “It’s a huge impact on their game [missing Rodri], in many aspects.
“They will miss him, but they still have 11 really good players on the pitch and every top team has to deal with that.”