Paul Merson says he would “be amazed” if Man Utd come out on top against Man City this weekend.
It will be Michael Carrick’s first game in charge as interim boss, but writing in his column for Sportskeeda, Merson said that the Red Devils won’t be able to compete with their rivals:
“Usually in derby games, form goes out of the window. It’s not the same here because, quite honestly, I can’t see anything but a Manchester City win! I’d be amazed if Manchester United won.”
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“In the last two or three derbies, the contest was more even in the sense that we knew Manchester United had a chance. I can’t say it’s the same now. Don’t get me wrong, I still think City concede too many chances. But their attack is just miles ahead and will have too much for United.”
What score has Merson predicted for Man Utd vs Man City?
The Sky Sports pundit has gone with a 3-1 win to Pep Guardiola’s men, which would be a very disappointing outcome for United fans if the match plays out that way.
Carrick has undoubtedly been handed a very tough first fixture, but if he can secure some sort of result in the derby – be it a draw or a win – then it could bode well for the future.
Man Utd vs Man City team news
Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo will be available after returning from the African Cup of Nations. Noussair Mazraoui is still at the tournament with Morocco.
In terms of injuries, there is still uncertainty over Matthijs de Ligt. The Dutchman has been sidelined with a back injury since late November.
City, meanwhile, will be without Savinho (knock), Oscar Bobb (hamstring), Omar Marmoush (AFCON), John Stones (thigh), Ruben Dias (hamstring), Josko Gvardiol (fractured leg) and Mateo Kovacic (ankle).
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