Manchester City vs. Man United: Manchester Derby Predicted Line-up

FILE PHOTO (EDITORS NOTE: COMPOSITE OF IMAGES - Image numbers 1398650853, 1421991604- GRADIENT ADDED) In this composite image a comparison has been made between Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City (L) and Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United. Manchester City and Manchester United meet in the Manchester Derby at the Etihad Stadium on October 2,2022 in Manchester, England. ***LEFT IMAGE*** MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 22: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City looks on prior to the Premier League match between Manchester City and Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium on May 22, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) ***RIGHT IMAGE*** MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 08: Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League group E match between Manchester United and Real Sociedad at Old Trafford on September 08, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

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Rodri

Whilst Phillips is out for the foreseeable after undergoing shoulder surgery, Rodri would always be starting in such a game as the Manchester Derby.

Rodri will need to take some tips on the tactical fouls from Ferna if he wants to ensure he’s breaking up any counterattacking opportunities.

De Bruyne

Some have criticised the Belgian for off form of late. However, he’s managed 6 assists and a goal in 7 Premier League games so far – not bad considering.

Even when he’s not at his best, he has the ability to carry the team to important results. He’ll be very much needed.

Gundogan

City skipper helps to control games his intelligence and chill, which will be crucial in such a high intensity game – remember Villa?

I expect he will do his defensive duties when needed, though I wonder how he will manage with the physicality of the game considering his rumoured back issues?