The Manchester derby needs no hype, but this weekend’s clash already feels defining. Both clubs have started the Premier League season unevenly, and bragging rights could shape momentum. City arrive after back-to-back defeats, their title credentials questioned. United, meanwhile, beat Burnley before the international break, climbing above their rivals and building a sliver of belief under Ruben Amorim.
Goalkeeper and defensive dilemmas
United’s most pressing call is in goal. With Andre Onana finalising a loan switch to Trabzonspor, Amorim must decide between Altay Bayindir and new £18.1m signing Senne Lammens. Bayindir has started all three league matches but looked shaky, while giving Lammens a derby debut would be a bold step.
The wing-back roles also pose questions. Amad Diallo impressed with his energy and was last season’s derby match-winner, but Amorim may lean on the defensive security of Diogo Dalot, who is a doubt with a muscle issue. On the left, Patrick Dorgu offers balance, while Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined with his ACL injury, leaving United short of experience.
Midfield headaches and attacking absences
Amorim’s midfield has revolved around Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, but injuries cloud his options. Cunha is a serious doubt with a hamstring issue. In contrast, Mason Mount will do a late fitness test. As long as one of them is there, Fernandes can still maintain his core position; otherwise, Amorim will have to rely on either Joshua Zirkzee or Manuel Ugarte. Without them, United risk losing creativity between midfield and attack.
Author’s View
This derby is less about flair and more about Amorim’s decision-making under pressure. From goalkeeper to midfield balance, every choice feels like a test of his long-term vision. United’s squad still looks patched together, but if Amorim gets the calls right, he could leave the Etihad with both points and authority.