United come into the match on the back of a 2-1 win against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League, with substitute Rasmus Hojlund scoring both goals to seal the victory.

In the meantime, that of Pep Guardiola Manchester City are going through a difficult period, with only one victory in their last ten matches in all competitions.

Earlier this season, Sporting Amorim surprised City with a dominant 4-1 victory in Champions Leaguea result that still persists on Guardiola’s side.

The Portuguese manager will now look to once again exploit City’s struggles and deliver a vital derby triumph to United, who are desperate for points to climb the Premier League table.

Paul Merson calls on Amorim to make controversial changes

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson has called on Amorim to make controversial changes to his United squad at the Etihad Stadium.

With City being so exploited on the break this season, he believes Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford should both start alongside Amad Diallo.

“If Ruben Amorim wants to win this match, he must opt ​​for a front three with players like Amad Diallo, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho,” he said on SportsKeeda“Everyone exposes City through counter-attacks and this trio can hurt them with their pace.

“Like I said, if United can hurt City with pace, they have a chance in this game. They must not sit idly by and find themselves in a shell, constantly trying to defend themselves. They must take the game to their rivals. I still think City have the advantage here.

United fans will disagree

This is certainly a controversial decision that many United fans will not agree with. Neither Garnacho nor Rashford showed they were worthy of starting this game.

The Englishman started against Viktoria Plzen and looked extremely poor. Garnacho came off the bench and wasted several chances at the break.

This doesn’t even take into account that Rasmus Højlund scored two goals last time out and looked extremely strong.

The Dane will almost certainly start this game and Mason Mount looks more likely to be involved than Rashford or Garnacho in that frontline.

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