Manchester United v Manchester City: 5 reasons Mourinho will emerge victorious
By Joel Slagle
Pogba’s suspension a blessing in disguise for Manchester United
United fans were understandably concerned after Paul Pogba’s red card against Arsenal last week. It was a blow to lose one of the most dynamic and exciting midfielders in the game ahead of the Manchester derby. There may be a silver lining, however.
With Pogba out, there is a place in United’s midfield for Ander Herrera. While Herrera is not on the same level as Pogba, he is still a useful part of the team. Mourinho used him superbly to man mark Eden Hazard out of the game last spring.
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Herrera can do the same to David Silva. Silva is a doubt for the match according to Guardiola, but few will be surprised if he starts at the weekend. He keeps City ticking over and is a crucial part of its attack. If he truly is struggling with a knock, the last thing he would want is to face a tenacious player like Herrera.
With Herrera shepherding Silva and Nemanja Matic tracking Kevin De Bruyne, United can control the midfield. The best way to stop the likes of Sterling and Sergio Aguero is to prevent them from receiving the ball. Shutting down Silva and De Bruyne does just that.
Pogba’s red card gives Mourinho the opportunity to play a defensively solid midfield without pressure from the fans. Pundits will say he is parking the bus. Mourinho can shrug it off, make a face and ask what else he can do because of the suspension.