Manchester City hosts Manchester United in a game that is equally crucial to both teams. While United will be battling to guarantee they stay in the chase for a European finish, City is hoping to keep pressure on rival title contenders Arsenal and Liverpool.
Neither of the two teams will be able to call up a number of players as United’s injury list is now significantly worse than that of its counterpart. After being spotted hobbling following Wednesday’s FA Cup victory over Nottingham Forest, there were worries that captain Bruno Fernandes would be out for this Sunday’s match. However, Erik ten Hag has allayed any worries. Raphael Varane, who was uncertain heading into the Forest match, is also expected to play at the Etihad.
Harry Maguire is one player the Red Devils will be without as he missed Wednesday’s game and is not expected to play today. “They [Varane and Fernandes] fought to be part [of it] and they came well out of the game. I think they will be available for Sunday as well. And for the rest, I don’t think players will return for Sunday, so we do it with the squad from yesterday”, said Ten Hag on Thursday afternoon.
Rasmus Hojlund, who is anticipated to come back from his muscle dilemma by mid-March, along with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martinez will all be absent for today’s derby.
With just two players out right now, City has only a few players on their injury list with one of their absentees being Grealish. Following his substitution in the 38th minute during Wednesday’s FA Cup victory over Luton Town, Jack Grealish is not expected to make an appearance for City’s lineup this weekend. It appears that the groin injury that has prevented the England international from playing in 2023–24 campaign is back.
Facebook Comments