Manchester United go into the 192nd Manchester derby without eight first-team players.
Erik ten Hag had some positive news at his pre-match press conference when he confirmed that Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane came through Wednesday night’s win over Nottingham Forest without any setbacks.
Both players were considered doubts for United’s FA Cup fifth-round win, but they both had a role to play in the 1-0 win at the City Ground.
We fully expect the duo to face City at the Etihad this weekend.
Sadly, however, United will be without the likes of Harry Maguire, Rasmus Hojlund, Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez for United’s toughest trip of the season.
Ten Hag has been left limited for options in both defence and midfield yet again.
Sofyan Amrabat started at left-back against Forest and I suspect he will remain in that role on Sunday, even if it frightens the life out of me!
Andre Onana will start between the sticks following another impressive display during the week.
We will see Diogo Dalot at right-back, with Raphael Varane joined by Victor Lindelof at centre-back.
Kobbie Mainoo will return to the line-up alongside Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, and I suspect we’ll see Scott McTominay in the team to give us an extra presence in midfield/attack.
Our two main threats for goals could be Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.
Predicted Manchester United XI vs Man City: Onana; Dalot, Lindelof, Varane, Amrabat; Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes, McTominay; Garnacho, Rashford.
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Lined up 1-10-0 in a fully bent over position, lube at the ready and 45 magic sponges and a box of kleenex for Bruno.