When the Red meets the Blue in the Manchester Derby, flares are ensured and epic wars are in store. With City’s successes over the years, especially during the post-Fergie era, the once “Noisy Neighbour” is now the bigger side in the Manchester region, with the famous jibe from Sir Alex is being reversed towards the red half of Manchester.
Can Erling Haaland Continue His Red-Hot Form Against the Red Devils?
The steal of the last transfer window must have been the Haaland transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City. The $63 Million investment proves to be worth every penny, with Haaland already scoring a whopping 14 goals in 10 appearances in all competitions and leading the Golden Boot race in the Premier League, a place where many have predicted that he might flop.
The Citizens have yet to lose a game in this Premier League season, with 23 goals scored and only 6 goals conceded; A big contrast to United’s zero goal difference. Furthermore, Pep Guardiola’s side is enjoying a 3-game unbeaten run in the Manchester Derby, making them the clear favourite to come out on top again during their next meeting against Manchester United.
Five Wins in a Row for United?
Fergie left United due to his retirement a decade ago. Since then, the Red Devils no longer have the blessings of winning the Premier League, with only two second-place finishes as their best league achievement. Besides, their bitter rival, Liverpool has won the league after a 30-year hiatus, putting themselves only a league title shy from levelling with United on total league titles won. To rub salt into the wound, United’s last trophy came three years ago, so it is safe to say that United would be desperate to win the league again this season.
Signs have been optimistic on the red side of Manchester though, with four straight wins in the league, including two wins over their rivals Arsenal and Liverpool. United seems to be rejuvenated under their new coach Erik ten Hag as well as several signings that he had made, namely Eriksen, Malacia, Martinez, etc. With a healthy Rashford returning on-time for ten Hag’s side, a win over the Citizens would be something special for the Red Devils.
Bold Prediction
Erik Ten Hag’s approach for the Red Devils has not been conservative, he has demanded the team to press and attack relentlessly, while Pep is known to be overthinking on his team selection during big games. We might be expecting a surprise win from the red half of Manchester in the Etihad stadium, but a determined Haaland is surely eager to beat the Red Devils on his own.
