- Man Utd host Man City at Old Trafford on December 10
- Merson predicts that Mourinho will park the bus against Guardiola’s men
- It won’t be a popular decision with United supporters if the Portuguese tactician does
- READ MORE: Arsenal legend fears Gunners will suffer major blow, key man to join PL rivals
Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho has already received some criticism this season for the way in which he has set up his side, but this could really infuriate fans.
There’s no denying that the Portuguese tactician is a more pragmatic coach, and a change in playing style was always likely at Old Trafford from the expansive, attacking culture that had previously been established.
However, he has been under the spotlight for performances against Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea in particular so far this season, with United opting for a more defensive-minded approach which has caused some tension between Mourinho and the fans, as noted by The Guardian.
Having delivered three trophies in his first season in charge at Man Utd, coupled with a stronger squad now capable of fighting for bigger prizes, is it really fair to argue with Mourinho’s methods if he delivers such success?
United are eight points adrift of rivals Man City at the top of the Premier League table as the two sides prepare to meet next month, and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has made what will be a worrying prediction for the Man Utd faithful.
“I don’t see anyone stopping City,” he said on the Sky Sports debate show, as reported by The Express. “I can’t wait for the Utd vs City game. You will see something at that game you’ve never seen.
“Man Utd will have to park the bus at home in front of 75,000. It will be significant because it is City.”
On one hand, that is not going to go down well with the Old Trafford fans, as they won’t want to see United essentially go into survival mode and try to snatch a point or three.
In contrast, can Mourinho really afford to go toe-to-toe with Pep Guardiola’s side and risk being outplayed? City have been in exceptional form this season, winning 12 of their 13 games, scoring 42 goals and conceding just eight.
In turn, it’s going to be a big call for Mourinho, but given the history so far this season against the top sides, it would come as no surprise if Merson is spot on here and we see another negative approach from the Manchester giants.