Man Metropolis 3-1 Man United – Premier League RECAP: Phil Foden nets an excellent double to show derby on its head and preserve champions’ title bid on observe TERMAN WEBSITE

The place to start out? What a Manchester Derby that turned out to be.

Manchester Metropolis dominated supreme ultimately after being given an early freight by Marcus Rashford and his scorching strike.

Phil Foden was the person of the second as he netted a brace to show issues round earlier than Erling Haaland obtained his customary purpose.

Though most individuals anticipated this end result, with the best way it occurred, that may actually give Metropolis confidence.

I simply do not know which certainly one of Metropolis, Liverpool, or Arsenal, will slip up first.

Effectively, we might discover out subsequent week as Metropolis are off to Anfield. The world will cease and watch that recreation, it might change the entire dynamic of the title race.

Liverpool win, they’re sturdy favourites. Metropolis win, it is of their palms. In the event that they draw, benefit Arsenal.

You possibly can’t take your eyes off the Premier League for a second, it’s field workplace this season.

I am positive you’ll all be again subsequent week, but additionally ensure you are again tomorrow, as we see how Arsenal fare away at Sheffield United.

In response to that remark, it obtained me fascinated with Erik ten Hag once more, and the way for much longer he can be on the membership.

It has been a very poor season for Manchester United, up to now, particularly while you have in mind the optimism after the earlier marketing campaign.

At the moment’s loss confirmed the hole between the 2 sides in the meanwhile, it’s getting additional and additional aside.

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe now concerned at United, how a lot time will INEOS give Ten Hag to show issues round?

Erik ten Hag can also be receiving quite a lot of criticism.

Nameless: One shot on course over 98 minutes and 24 % possession is fairly damning for Ten Hag supporters. That’s their eleventh loss within the league this season, eleventh loss. Insanity.

I’ve been taking a look on the remark part, and it appears quite a lot of Manchester United followers aren’t pleased with their aspect’s efficiency.

This fan is a type of that’s sad:

Nameless: Some of the lopsided 3-1 victories I’ve ever seen. Manchester United felt so inferior to their opponents proper off the bat.

Effectively, reflecting on the sport, it actually was continuous motion and Man Metropolis deservedly got here out on prime ultimately.

There have been loads of prime performances inside Pep Guardiola’s aspect, however what did Jack Gaughan, of Mail Sport, consider them?

In the meantime, Manchester United had their backs up in opposition to the wall for almost all of the match, bar that second of magic from Marcus Rashford. Chris Wheeler, of Mail Sport, shared his opinions on who featured for the Pink Devils in our participant scores article.

Learn each Jack and Chris’ ideas, under:

Pep Guardiola, Manchester Metropolis boss, chatting with Sky Sports activities:

We weren’t struggling, we had been shedding the sport however not struggling. We had actually good defensively and offensively. The primary half was higher than the second.

On the efficiency of Phil Foden:

He loves soccer. He lives to play. There are individuals who wish to play. He likes to play soccer.

He’ll already be a legendary participant as a result of in a brief age, the video games performed, the minutes, the targets scored, the titles received and he’s from the house and that’s the reason the reference to the followers is unbelievable.

He’s the participant of the season, with all of the respect for unimaginable gamers however no-one has been so decisive for us as him this season.

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden each actually love this derby.

Each netted hat-tricks on the Etihad final season and netted three between them once more as we speak.

Erling Haaland’s purpose as we speak takes his tally in Manchester derbies as much as six targets.

He has solely performed 4 league video games in opposition to them, wherein all of these targets got here.

Even when he left it late, he all the time wished that purpose, particularly after the massive miss from the primary half.

United can be pleased to see the again of him this season until they meet within the FA Cup once more…

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United supervisor chatting with Sky Sports activities:

We had two gamers on the pitch which weren’t 100% [fit]. Jonny Evans and Marcus Rashford, however they gave every part like the entire staff and we’re upset with the rating.

Completely they fought, the togetherness and the efficiency was excellent. On one other day we might have received this – small margins.

Particularly Rashford he had some good opportunties to attain one other purpose and Alejandro Garnacho at moments.

I feel the plan went nicely, very small margins so all of the credit is to Man Metropolis and the way constant they’ll play.

It is time to hear to a different opinion, I feel!

The good Oliver Holt, Mail Sport Chief Sports activities Author, was on match report duties on the Etihad as we speak.

To learn Oliver Holt’s match report, click on under:

Phil Foden, Man Metropolis goalscorer, chatting with Sky Sports activities:

That is my goal to show up within the large video games, this season I am proving that. I simply have to preserve working laborious.

I perceive what it means for the followers, it means every part for me, to attain as nicely.

Two lads from Larger Manchester, scoring within the derby for his or her respective groups.

It was a day for the academy merchandise on the Etihad, with Phil Foden the on that got here out on prime.

Roy Keane, former Manchester United captain, talking on Sky Sports activities:

I will not be too laborious on United as we speak as a result of Metropolis had been good, they confirmed why they’re champions. Metropolis discover out all of your shortcomings.

They simply wore them down. Jonny went off they had been type of hanging off there. Foden stepped up. Wonderful, good participant. It nonetheless leaves that query mark over United. They could not get close to Metropolis. Metropolis toyed with United. While you play Metropolis there is not any hiding place.

Mail Sport Soccer Editor, Ian Ladyman, mentioned earlier that ‘one factor that may not be doubted about Manchester United, it’s the limitless capability for punishment of their away assist.’

United followers are all the time there, come rain or shine, to assist their staff – even in instances like these.

They sang from begin to end, making an attempt to push their aspect on, and the United gamers thanked them for that.

It wasn’t their day ultimately, however these followers can be again in one other away finish as quickly as they are often.

I’ve already mentioned it earlier than as we speak, and even earlier than that, however Phil Foden has been distinctive this season.

In all competitions, he has 28 purpose contributions, and 18 of them have come within the Premier League.

Clearly, all of us discuss Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bruyne, however certainly Phil Foden can now be held in related regard as them each.

He’s slowly turning into certainly one of Metropolis’s major males.

Taking a look at these stats, I can not consider Man United held on for so long as they did.

The Pink Devils could not make an influence within the second half in any respect, they had been camped in their very own field.

Man Metropolis simply stored knocking on the door, after which smashed it down!

Premier League pundit Paul Scholes to Premier League Productions:

It’s most likely the correct end result. Man Metropolis are a category above in the meanwhile. Man Utd knew that in the event that they went toe-to-toe they might most likely get beat, in order that they got here to make it troublesome.

They don’t have the gamers in the meanwhile which can be able to beating Man Metropolis.

I am assuming you’re feeling on prime of the world!

Typically these sorts of video games will be robust to look at when it would not really feel prefer it’s going your method.

However when you find yourself discovering a method by way of, it makes all of it the higher.

So, Metropolis followers, and United when you like, how do you’re feeling after what we simply witnessed?

Tell us within the feedback!

Pep Guardiola is an emotional man who kicks each ball when his aspect is on the pitch. His feelings had been put by way of the wringer as we speak.

In the long run, he can be delighted. The best way he celebrated these targets, he knew how essential they had been.

He loves blowing kisses into the stands, it is his normal celebration!

Phil Foden was untouchable within the second half.

He waltzed across the man United defenders like they weren’t there at instances, and obtained two targets for good measure.

Let’s take a look on the second – Metropolis labored it so nicely and Foden completed it off.

They could not lose, they did not lose.

Manchester United led till the 56th minute, however they simply could not halt this Manchester Metropolis practice.

Phil Foden is having the season of his life, he’s the native lad who has dawned the blue of Metropolis from such a younger age, and his brace is the rationale they’re winners right here.

Erling Haaland made up for his earlier sitter with a purpose in stoppage time, he was by no means going to overlook out in opposition to United, was he?

The underside line is, Metropolis are only one level behind Liverpool on the prime, they knew they needed to win as we speak.

Subsequent up for the Residents, is a visit to Anfield… what a mouth-watering prospect.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

Did anybody predict 3-1 at kick-off? Simply asking….

The best way Metropolis are taking part in Ian, they might simply get one other!

He simply could not be neglected, Erling Haaland seals the derby day victory for Manchester Metropolis.

It is actually poor defending from United, who’ve been blown away on this second half.

Substitute Sofyan Amrabat is dispossed by Rodri who feeds Haaland, and he does the remainder.

It is a typical Haaland end, it is develop into his trademark. He can be relieved he obtained his purpose ultimately after his earlier miss.

The Metropolis followers are loving life.

If it was Metropolis that wanted the targets, I feel the time can be used to impact.

Nonetheless, Man United do not seem like doing that.

Manchester Metropolis are having fun with themselves now.

The Residents scent blood and are flowing ahead, United cannot deal with them.

Kevin de Bruyne sends in a robust effort which is blocked.

If there’s to be one other purpose, it’s going to certainly be from Metropolis. United look knackered.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

Appears harsh to say it however as Foden eased by way of there I didn’t count on him to attain throughout the goalkeeper

Onana obtained an enormous hand on it however couldn’t preserve it out. He can be ‘upset’, as they are saying.

Guardiola’s tactical swap after the equaliser has proved to be a key one. Doku had been Metropolis’s worst participant and Alvarez’s introduction has allowed Foden licence to roam to the left and Bernardo Silva to fill in on the correct.

Metropolis have appeared extra balanced and extra fluid and it has additionally helped them to be taking part in in opposition to what’s now a really drained United staff.

It is Foden once more, they’ve turned it round!

He has rescued Metropolis, and he has performed it in opposition to their greatest rivals, the Etihad erupts into celebration.

It is one other unbelievable purpose, he performs a beautiful one-two with Julian Alvarez earlier than sliding it throughout and simply previous Andre Onana.

The United keeper did get a contact, however cannot preserve it out.

That could possibly be an enormous purpose within the context of the title race, I think about followers of Liverpool and Arsenal set free an enormous sigh when the web rippled.

Man United followers are screaming for a penalty after Ederson slides by way of Alejandro Garnacho as he races by way of into the field.

VAR does test it however clears it in a short time.

Ederson obtained the ball earlier than the person, it was a phenomenal problem.

I really like how modern-day goalkeepers can try this.

What a recreation this may be to reply his critics. The final time he graced the Etihad turf, he did rating, however United did lose 6-3.

He hasn’t scored many since, however he’s on now for… Marcus Rashford, the goalscorer.

I wasn’t anticipating him to return off. He obtained this recreation underway with an unimaginable strike, his work right here is completed.

Not his finest free-kick ever.

The ensuing set-piece is fired straight into the wall by Kevin de Bruyne.

I used to be anticipating it to go in, going off the targets we have now already had on this recreation.

It is a large probability for Manchester Metropolis.

Erling Haaland expenses on the United defence and is taken down simply outdoors the world.

Moments after, Erik ten Hag makes his first change as teen Willy Kambwala comes on for Jonny Evans.

Anyway, that is Kevin de Bruyne territory, he can bury these on his day.

Andre Onana has simply gone down injured… with cramp.

It isn’t regular for a goalkeeper to go down with cramp, particularly after solely 65 minutes!

I am unsure that’s utterly honest play from the United keeper, he’s again up and taking part in once more now.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

It’s to Lindelof’s credit score that Foden has had no pleasure going outdoors him. It’s been left foot on the within or bust all day for the Metropolis participant. However what a purpose from Foden. What a strike. The second finest purpose of the afternoon..

As for the controversy that preceded it, it’s such a tricky one to name.

Kyle Walker positively put his arm on Rashford. Equally I believe Rashford felt he was shedding the race in opposition to Metropolis’s right-back and as such was pleased to go down.

Did Walker truly convey Rashford down or might he have stayed on his ft? If I needed to name it, I might go together with the latter…he might.

Chris Wheeler, Mail Sport, on the Etihad Stadium:

Lindelof at left-back all the time appeared just like the weak hyperlink for Utd and he couldn’t get shut sufficient to dam that Foden equaliser.

And now, Pep Guardiola seems to the bench.

jeremy Doku’s recreation is up and Julian Alvarez, who had began each league recreation till final week at Bournemouth, comes on in his place.

There’s going to be an onslaught now from the hosts, United have to one way or the other keep in it if they need something from this match.

Phil Foden watched Marcus Rashford’s strike earlier and thought ‘I am going to match you’ and he simply has.

He bends it into the highest lefthand nook with aplomb. He loves a purpose in opposition to Man United, does Foden, and I feel which will simply be his finest in opposition to them.

Erik ten Hag shouldn’t be pleased as he thinks there was a foul on Marcus Rashford, and he will get booked for his protests. It was by no means a foul.

They’re stage, and now you possibly can solely see it going a technique.

Now that was cheeky from Casemiro.

Man United have been below intense stress within the second half, however have lastly had a contact of the ball.

Casemiro even will get just a little nutmeg in for good measure, which appeared extraordinarily satisfying.

Andre Onana will get the smallest of touches on Jeremy Doku’s strike that diverts it out of hazard.

Man United have lots to thank him for, because it stands.

I ponder what tune they had been taking part in?

Man Metropolis can be wanting to seek out theirs reasonably quickly!

Proper, we’re again underway once more!

I ponder what Pep Guardiola mentioned to his staff on the break, they should change issues, and fast.

I am assuming Erik ten Hag simply mentioned extra of the identical. You’re feeling they’ll want one other purpose, Metropolis all the time rating.

For these of you who have not seen it, right here is the Erling Haaland miss.

You’ll all assume it’s edited, nevertheless it is not.

That is the distinction on the interval.

What a strike it was, nobody was anticipating it, nevertheless it flew in off the bar. Distinctive.

What a time to do it as nicely, within the Manchester Derby away from house.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

United’s techniques with out the ball are clear. Sit deep but additionally sit slender. Usually when Metropolis come at them, United have all ten outfield gamers squeezed throughout the width of the 18-yard field.

Metropolis’s answer to that, after all, is to go large however up to now Diogo Dalot has had an excellent afternoon in opposition to Jeremy Doku on the correct aspect of United’s again 4 whereas the Lindelof-Foden battle on the opposite aspect can also be removed from one-sided.

Different stand out performers for the visiting staff within the first half – Rashford’s purpose however – have been Onana within the United purpose and Casemiro simply in entrance of the again 4.

The stats recommend Metropolis ought to nonetheless win within the recreation. However there was a powerful want and unity about United.

By way of that Erling Haaland miss simply earlier than half-time, I do not know why he didn’t simply stoop and head it in…

I nonetheless cannot consider it.

Are all of us dreaming, did he actually miss that?

Yeah, he did. We aren’t used to seeing it, however typically Haaland would not get every part proper.

As I mentioned, he’s human, however on the similar time, how large will that miss be within the context of this match, and this season?

Oliver Holt, Mail Sport Chief Sports activities Author, on the Etihad Stadium:

That is certain to be a jinx however United’s defence has been very good up to now this afternoon. Particular point out for Andre Onana, who took quite a lot of deserved criticism within the aftermath of his transfer from Inter Milan however has proven rising indicators of settling into his position at United.

His dealing with has been very good in opposition to Metropolis and his save from Foden earlier preserved United’s lead. He even obtained a little bit of luck when Haaland missed that open purpose on the stroke of half time.

Kyle Walker is the final Man Metropolis participant to have a crack, after which after a nook, the whistle is blown for the interval.

No one was anticipating this, Manchester United lead on the Etihad Stadium after 45 minutes.

It was a purpose worthy of successful any match, Marcus Rashford answered his critics by crashing one in from almost 30 yards. It was the type of purpose that leaves your mouth gaping large open.

After the preliminary shock, the hosts did begin to dominate and may have been stage simply earlier than the break by way of Erling Haaland, however one way or the other he missed from three yards out.

I did not assume Haaland might miss possibilities like that, nevertheless it reveals he actually is human.

Man united followers can be delighted, however there’s a lengthy solution to go, Metropolis do not again down.

Can Metropolis discover a purpose earlier than the break?

There isn’t a different solution to put it. Erling Haaland has simply put one over the bar from three yards out.

I do not understand how he has missed, neither does he, and even Pep Guardiola.

It is unnecessary. He scored 5 the opposite evening!

What an enormous let-off for the guests.

Kobbie Mainoo has simply taken a robust Phil Foden strike to the face.

He drops to the bottom, that has obtained to harm.

The Man Metropolis followers really feel no sympathy although, they boo.

I feel that ball is heading in my route, all the best way to London!

Kevin de Bruyne can do distinctive issues, however that was not certainly one of them.

He tried to blast one on the volley from distance… it almost went out the bottom.

I’ve simply seen the stats of this match, and oh boy, Metropolis have been dominant.

The hosts have had 14 photographs to Man United’s two, and Metropolis are beginning to ramp up the stress going into the break.

Nonetheless, the one stat that issues is what’s on the scoreboard, and United followers may have a smile when taking a look at it.

Andre Onana has been good up to now, and has simply made one other wonderful save!

We all know what Rodri can do from distance, and he lets fly a scorching strike that’s heading in direction of the underside nook, however Onana reaches it to divert it large.

That is the Onana United followers wished to see when he arrived from Inter Milan.

That may be a half probability for Erling Haaland, you do not wish to give him these.

Fortunately for Man United, he cannot take this one as his header dips over the bar.

It got here off Casemiro’s head first, it simply did not sit proper for Haaland.

This isn’t what Pep Guardiola had within the script, or any of us for that matter.

Man Metropolis simply do not look themselves in the meanwhile, they’re giving Manchester United quite a lot of alternatives on the counter-attack.

What can this man do to vary issues?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

Metropolis have positively been troubled by that unimaginable Rashford purpose. Their subsequent possession has not carried its ordinary cohesion.

As for Andre Onana within the United purpose, the final 3 times I’ve seen him play reside – right here, Forest final week and at Aston Villa earlier than that – he has appeared like an excellent keeper certainly. Twice already right here he has produced good saves and has additionally appeared very snug at corners and set items.

Lengthy solution to go but however Pep Guardiola has already been calling for extra from the house supporters…

One other large second for Marcus Rashford and Manchester United.

United have been hitting Metropolis on the counter with ease, they usually did it once more right here.

The ball comes into the field and each Scott McTominay and the aforementioned Rashford are there.

The ball sails over to Rashford and he miskicks it. If he might have arrange McTominay, he would have had a tap-in.

Large, large save from Andre Onana.

Man Metropolis ripped open United’s defence there, Phil Foden is in acres of house as he expenses down on targets.

Onana makes an early resolution to hurry Foden, and it really works, he manages to get in the best way of his strike.

Sensible from Kyle Walker.

Marcus Rashford is clear by way of, you assume a second purpose is beckoning, however the United goalscorer takes a poor contact and Walker cleans up.

The Metropolis full-back was shifting at some tempo!

Large missed probability although, for United.

Metropolis appeared just a little shocked by that purpose, as did their followers.

They appear to be again in some form of rhythm once more now as Phil Foden forces a save from Andre Onana.

The ensuing nook involves nothing.

The purpose has come so early although, that Metropolis will not be panicking but. There’s a lot of time left on this recreation.

Gary Neville, commentating on Sky Sports activities:

That is one of the simplest ways to reply everyone, smash one within the web from 25 yards.

Ake permits Fernandes to get in behind. It is a 1 in 20, 1 in 30 probability that you just assume Rashford goes to beat Ederson from there. It is a magnificence from Manchester United’s quantity ten.

That’s an absolute scorcher from Marcus Rashford.

Bruno Fernandes will get in behind earlier than establishing Rashford who is definitely 30 yards out – you would not count on what was to occur.

He let’s fly and it cannons in off the bar! We had been all questioning what Rashford would flip up, nicely, there’s your reply.

I set free a really unusual noise when that went in, I used to be not anticipating it.

The primary indicators of Man United’s attacking risk has come.

They hit Metropolis on the counter, and Alejandro Garnacho goes bursting by way of on the righthand aspect earlier than making an attempt to sq. it for Marcus Rashford. Nonetheless, Ederson collects.

I feel Garnacho waited too lengthy there, he ought to have launched lots sooner, there have been gaps hole in in behind.

Promising indicators although, for United followers.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

As unusual because it sounds, there are some areas within the away finish – proper on the again and within the corners. I might think about there’s a motive for it.

If there’s one factor that may not be doubted about Manchester United, it’s the limitless capability for punishment of their away assist.

Man Metropolis need a penalty, John Stones falls to the bottom amongst a sea of our bodies.

It seems like Casemiro will get a contact on the ball and Stones then takes out his personal legs.

Metropolis are on the entrance foot from the off, as we anticipated.

They earn two corners inside 90 seconds, they’re nicely up for this, as are the followers.

You’re feeling United are simply going to take a seat tight for some time.

I am assuming Manchester United have received the toss, as they’ve chosen to modify ends.

Blue Moon has been sung, the gamers are prepared, I’m prepared, we’re all prepared!

Simply take heed to the Etihad Stadium, they’re pumped.

What a phenomenal day that is for the Manchester Derby, the solar is out in March!

Who will come out on prime? We get underway in only a second.

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United supervisor, chatting with Sky Sports activities:

We had some bodily complaints they usually actually fought to be a part of this recreation.

Typically we wish to overload the midfield by motion and just a little little bit of confusion there. We now have quite a lot of velocity, Garnacho, Rashford, from McTominay, even from the third line with Dalot.

There’s quite a lot of house of their backline. Scott is a unbelievable runner from the second line. Metropolis all the time has a very good counter-press. We now have gamers who can do it from assault and midfield.

Jonny struggled currently however he is without doubt one of the gamers who fought to play this recreation. That is the strongest again 4 I feel we have now out there.

Jack Gaughan, Mail Sport, has noticed each Lisandro Martinez and Rasmus Hojlund on the sidelines throughout the warm-ups.

Each out by way of harm, they’re giving as a lot assist as they’ll.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

‘Eat or be eaten’ says Erik Ten Hag.

I like that, Erik. I like that lots. Tuck your serviette in, son..

Pep Guardiola, Manchester Metropolis supervisor, chatting with Sky Sports activities:

Sure, there are essential moments however it’s important to play all of the video games. It is an opponent that we all know the power and the standard that they’ve.

Erik [ten] Hag is aware of their plan higher than me however we’ll attempt to determine it out as rapidly as doable, learn it and supply the correct dose of power to carry out nicely.

We now have to remain calm as a result of we needn’t convey something to this recreation. It is a derby so it does the job for you.

Need a good stat? In fact, you do!

Jonny Evans is about to start out for Manchester United as we speak, the final time he performed Jonny Evans within the derby was over a decade in the past – again in December 2012!

I wager when you advised Evans this time final yr that he would function in a Manchester Derby once more sooner or later, he would snigger.

Manchester United’s line-up has raised many questions.

As they’re with out a recognised striker, we’re all guessing which system Erik ten Hag goes to play.

My guess is that Marcus Rashford goes to be beginning up prime. Previously, that has not all the time gone to plan.

Will he handle to trigger injury to Metropolis, if he’s certainly main the road?

Sifting by way of the feedback on this put up, I’ve come to a conclusion.

Everyone thinks that Manchester United are going to get battered.

Have they ever been this a lot of an underdog within the membership’s historical past?

Is it too farfetched to say Manchester United are in with a shot as we speak? I do not assume it’s.

Sure, it’s a very robust ask, however we have now seen prior to now that when a staff are so closely favourites, it would not all the time work of their favour.

The United gamers appeared lethal critical as they arrived on the Etihad, whereas Erik ten Hag appeared in good spirits.

Does he know one thing we do not?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, on the Etihad Stadium:

All quiet contained in the Etihad in the meanwhile nevertheless it wont be for lengthy.

Derby day is all the time derby day and as such Manchester United followers will journey throughout city in hope if not fairly expectation.

The groups are in and it seems as if United supervisor Erik ten Hag has gone for some midfield safety and the inclusion of Scott McTominay, Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro suggests it will likely be a 4-5-1 (or model of) for the visiting staff.

By way of particular person match-ups, Phil Foden versus Victor Lindelof down the correct aspect of Metropolis’s assault could possibly be ‘attention-grabbing’. The final time I noticed Lindelof at left-back was at Aston Villa two or three Sundays in the past and he was completely horrible.

Metropolis’s line-up, in the meantime, is closely influenced by the very fact Wednesday’s Champions League recreation right here in opposition to FC Copenhagen is just about a useless rubber. Metropolis lead 3-1 from the primary leg and that has allowed Pep Guardiola to fill this staff with first alternative attacking gamers.

As for a prediction? United are being priced at 9-1 and 10-1 by some bookmakers to win this recreation and that speaks volumes.

I’ll go 3-1 Manchester Metropolis….

What a recreation it’s set as much as be in Manchester.

My pleasure is constructing by the second, I’m itching to see which Metropolis and United flip up as we speak.

Each man and his canine is backing Metropolis to knock over United with ease, however will it pan out that method?

What are your predictions? Touch upon the put up under!

Chris Wheeler, Mail Sport, has been taking within the environment of this large conflict because the groups arrived.

Let’s hear his ideas forward of the massive conflict!

Bruno Fernandes begins, which implies the United captain is about to make his one hundred and fiftieth Premier League look for the membership.

In that point he has scored 47 targets and offered 38 assists, whereas ending 80 of these matches on the successful aspect – not a nasty document.

Nonetheless, Fernandes has failed to seek out the again of the web in his final 14 video games within the Premier League – not such a very good document.

United are going to want him at his highest as we speak as a result of when he’s, there aren’t many higher attacking midfielders within the league.

If he isn’t although, it could possibly be a protracted afternoon for them…

Manchester Metropolis have arrived and to some welcome!

The Metropolis followers are nicely up for this, they understand how a lot it means.

As a participant while you drive by way of a crowd like that it should fill you with a lot motivation.

The adrenaline is nicely and actually pumping now.

Oliver Holt, Mail Sport Chief Sports activities Author, on the Etihad Stadium:

Followers are beginning to trickle into the Etihad nevertheless it’s laborious to seek out any of them who assume Manchester United have an opportunity. The bookmakers are with them, too.

For a recreation historically as fiercely contested as this, it’s uncommon to have the ability to get odds of 8-1 or higher for a United win.

If there’s anybody who might assist United upset these odds, it is most likely Marcus Rashford, or least final season’s model of him. United followers outdoors the bottom have been expressing some disillusion with him however in addition they know he is their finest probability of dealing Metropolis an surprising blow.

Effectively, it is a beginning XI that might line up in many alternative methods.

There isn’t a orthodox striker for Manchester United as Rasmus Hojlund sits out the derby with harm.

Will Bruno Fernandes begin within the entrance three, or will it’s Scott McTominay?

Taking a look at that staff it’s going to take a monumental effort for them to get one thing from this recreation.

Oh Jack, you had been so near getting it bang on!

So, it’s certainly Jeremy Doku who begins at left wing for Manchester Metropolis.

Each Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bruyne additionally begin after their gorgeous performances at Luton within the FA Cup. Josko Gvardiol additionally returns to the bench after harm.

That’s one horrifying staff.

Right here they’re, the underdogs.

As I mentioned earlier, I am unsure I’ll get used to saying that.

Who will Erik ten Hag choose for this large fixture?

The environment is constructing in Manchester.

When the whistle blows in simply over you already know that the decibel ranges are going to be excessive.

Derby Day atmospheres are all the time top-notch.

Jack Gaughan, Mail Sport, on the Etihad Stadium:

A number of choice dilemmas with Metropolis as we speak (Walker or Akanji or each?) however the greatest name for Pep Guardiola as we speak is what he does out on the left wing.

There’ve been requires Mathues Nunes to start out on the market over Jeremy Doku within the absence of Jack Grealish. Or does he go together with Phil Foden large and decide for an additional passer within the central areas?

I’d most likely be tempted to go together with Ederson; Akanji, Stones, Dias, Ake; Rodri; Silva, De Bruyne, Foden, Doku; Haaland

However then I’m not paid the massive cash!

Final time these two clashed within the Premier League, Metropolis had been imperious, and United, nicely, they had been dreadful.

It was a day United followers is not going to wish to keep in mind. Metropolis dominated supreme at Outdated Trafford with out having to interrupt a sweat. It actually confirmed the gulf at school between the 2 groups.

Erling Haaland was his devastating self on that event, scoring a brace earlier than Phil Foden completed off the Pink Devils with 10 minutes left to play.

Has that hole closed within the months which have adopted, or will it’s de ja vu for United on the Etihad?

Phil Foden, chatting with Sky Sports activities pre-match:

It is an important day, rising up within the academy I understood what it means to the followers to win a recreation like that, so it’s totally particular.

(Final yr’s Manchester Derby) was good power, we had been believing, we had been going into the sport with good rhythm.

That feeling to attain in a derby on the Etihad. To attain that many targets so early settles the nerves. We knew right away Haaland was going to attain quite a lot of targets, we had been all excited to play with him.

I feel he heard me screaming for the ball, it is a unbelievable cross that he gave me.

It was 4-0 however (Pep) Guardiola nonetheless wasn’t pleased with us, he thought we might do higher. I anticipated Haaland to attain targets however possibly not that many.

The Manchester Derby has had its fair proportion of iconic moments.

Asahi Tremendous Dry has launched new analysis surveying 500 Metropolis followers, with one in 5 claiming they’d reasonably lose their cellphone than undergo defeat to rivals Manchester United.

They then additionally voted for his or her prime 10 finest moments from earlier derbies, and there are some crackers in there. Very nostalgic.

I do know you all wish to have a look at the listing, so right here you go:

1. Haaland’s second purpose in 6-3 win – Oct 2022

2. Aguero approaching as a sub and scoring a person purpose at Outdated Trafford 3-0 win – 2013

3. Mario Balotelli stole the headlines in an emphatic 6-1 Metropolis win – 2011

4. Foden’s first purpose in 6-3 win – Oct 2022

5. Fernandinho with a low shot from 20 yards in League Cup at Outdated Trafford – 2021

6. Denis Regulation’s outrageous back-heel at Outdated Trafford helped to relegate the Reds – 1974

7. Ilkay Gundogan volley 1st min FA Cup ultimate – 2023

8. Yaya Toure winner at Wembley FA Cup SF – 2011

9. Kompany header v United 2012 to go prime with two video games to go

10. Edin Dzeko scores a sixth at Outdated Trafford and holds 5 + 1 on his fingers – Oct 2011

There are some attention-grabbing ones there, possibly some recency bias coming in? However, there are some nice moments in there that Metropolis followers are keen on.

I ponder what Manchester United’s listing can be.

Marcus Rashford’s identify has been doing the rounds prior to now week.

That’s as a result of the Manchester United ahead printed a passionate piece on the Gamers’ Tribute platform on Thursday.

Within the article, Rashford shared his perception that folks have it in for him.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Soccer Editor, believes that the essay can come throughout as an excuse.

Learn what Ian Ladyman needed to say, right here:

When it’s derby day nerves actually get jangling.

I’ve seen family and friends actually shaking when their staff is concerned in a derby – the feelings are heightened considerably.

Delight, despair, you possibly can really feel all of it.

So, calling all followers of each Metropolis and United, how are you diddling?

Metropolis and United met for the primary time in 1881, so you possibly can say that the derby has been working for some time…

United had been a dominant pressure for such a very long time, however Metropolis have swung the pendulum of their route over the previous decade and extra.

Within the 9 conferences between the edges because the 2020-21 season, it’s clear to see who the higher aspect has been.

United did seize a win over the treble-winners final season although, so it’s not utterly out of the query they might spring a shock.

A greater query would most likely be, what didn’t occur yesterday?

It was one other chaotic Saturday of Premier League motion, I must be getting used to them by now, however there appears to be an increasing number of carnage with each passing week. It’s good.

Liverpool hit the headlines as soon as once more as Darwin Nunez netted a 99th-minute winner away at Nottingham Forest to maintain them accountable for the title race. It was the most recent any Liverpool aspect has scored a successful purpose in a league recreation. Field workplace.

Tottenham produced a late turnaround to topple Crystal Palace, whereas we noticed each one of the best and worst of Chelsea as they drew 2-2 away at Brentford.

There was one other late winner involving a aspect from Liverpool, nevertheless it didn’t go the best way of Everton, as West Ham left it late to win at Goodison Park. The opposite two video games weren’t as drama-filled, as each Newcastle and Fulham ran away 3-0 winners in opposition to Wolves and Brighton respectively.

Let’s not overlook the late kick-off both, Aston Villa survived a second-half fightback from Luton City as Lucas Digne netted an 89-minute header to steal all three factors. One other unimaginable match.

As you possibly can inform, it was targets galore, most of them late!

Sure, the boxing puns are nonetheless going, and the purple nook of Manchester United can be seeking to land a knockout blow on the Etihad.

United and the phrase underdog not often go in the identical sentence, however there isn’t any higher solution to describe them going into this match.

Does that take the stress off although? No one is anticipating them to return away with the three factors and possibly that may permit them to play with the liberty they should make an influence.

Nonetheless, they must play one million instances higher than they did in opposition to Fulham final week. The two-1 house loss to the Londoners was their first defeat of 2024.

United at present sit sixth on 44 factors, 11 behind Aston Villa who occupy the ultimate Champions League spot. That’s an enormous margin to make up, so in the event that they wish to give it a crack, successful as we speak will assist them massively.

While you’re studying this put up, simply think about it’s being mentioned within the voice of Michael Buffer. It can construct up the suspense, belief me.

Preventing out of the blue nook as we speak, we have now Manchester Metropolis.

As I’ve already said, the Residents are large favourites for this Manchester derby, and even when they’re not prime because it stands, the Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola has constructed a juggernaut of a staff that all the time finds a solution to win. They’ve received 5 out of the final six league titles, achieved the treble final season, and are nonetheless preventing on three fronts this marketing campaign.

Nonetheless, they’re at present embroiled in one of many biggest title races we have now seen shortly. They aren’t simply preventing Liverpool for the Premier League, however Arsenal too they usually can’t afford to slide up.

Sitting in second place on 59 factors, 4 adrift of leaders Liverpool – whom they play subsequent weekend at Anfield – and one away from the Gunners in third.

Though they’re anticipated to win large in opposition to United as we speak, keep in mind, it’s a derby – they’re by no means easy.

Manchester will stand nonetheless at 3.30pm to look at its two gigantic golf equipment face off in a match of epic proportions.

It’s a story as previous as time, a derby that separates households. It’s blue vs purple, it’s Manchester Metropolis vs Manchester United.

The very fact of the matter is that Metropolis come into this match as enormous favourites, however as we all know in soccer, it’s not performed on paper.

United might make a huge effect on the title race, and each Liverpool and Arsenal followers can be cheering them on like they’re their very own staff. I’m guessing that may really feel unusual to Reds followers.

Which aspect of Manchester can be celebrating come 5.30pm?