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City vs United: Predicting the Manchester United XI for the derby

By Prathamesh Murugesan

BERN, SWITZERLAND - SEPTEMBER 19: Paul Pogba of Manchester United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Group H match of the UEFA Champions League between BSC Young Boys and Manchester United at Stade de Suisse, Wankdorf on September 19, 2018 in Bern, Switzerland. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
BERN, SWITZERLAND - SEPTEMBER 19: Paul Pogba of Manchester United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Group H match of the UEFA Champions League between BSC Young Boys and Manchester United at Stade de Suisse, Wankdorf on September 19, 2018 in Bern, Switzerland. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images) /
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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: Luke Shaw of Manchester United celebrates scoring a goal to make the score 2-0 during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Leicester City at Old Trafford on August 10, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by John Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: Luke Shaw of Manchester United celebrates scoring a goal to make the score 2-0 during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Leicester City at Old Trafford on August 10, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by John Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images) /

RB: Ashley Young

Following a surgery to Antonio Valencia earlier this season, United have been without their first choice right back. But Ashley Young’s impressive performances so far have been more than up to the mark.

Young has taken over from Valencia as captain as well and has led his team incredibly well in their recent run of victories. He will turn 34 next July, and yet, there is no sign of age taking a toll on his legs.

Having mostly played as left back last season, the emergence of Luke Shaw led many fans to write him off, but with Diogo Dalot also out injured, Young has made the most of his opportunities.

Against City, his defensive skills will come under intense scrutiny, as he goes up against an in-form Raheem Sterling, apart from having to deal with Benjamin Mendy on the overlap.

His set-piece led to United’s winner against Juventus in midweek. Considering that United have a noticeable height advantage over City, this particular part of his game will be crucial on Sunday.

LB: Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw’s resurgence this season has thankfully not been sabotaged by any unfortunate injuries, and he is expected to keep his spot on the left side of United’s defense.

Ever since Patrice Evra departed, left back has been a problem position for United, having never truly had a proper left-footed full-back apart from Shaw. The former Southampton man’s numerous injuries mean that he is only now beginning to repay his £30 million transfer fee.

The 23-year-old also recently signed a new 5-year deal reportedly worth £150,000 per week.

His pace and energy also provide a useful attacking outlet down the left flank. Defensively, he will have to deal with Riyad Mahrez and Kyle Walker, which will be no mean feat.

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