Manchester City travel to Old Trafford for what is being tipped as a hugely important Manchester derby, which could go some way to deciding the finishing order of the Premier League’s top four.
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The match is sure to be a fiery on-pitch battle with no holds barred. As with any local derby, there is pride at stake, but this time both team’s seasons hinge on a win today. Here is where the key on pitch battles will be taking place:
Sergio Aguero vs Marcos Rojo
The Argentine is one of the world’s best strikers and Manchester City’s main man, if they are to carry an attacking threat then the 23 goal man will no doubt be on the end of it. Marcos Rojo plays with Aguero in the Argentina squad, will know his game better than most and possesses more pace than Phil Jones and as a result will be better equipped to deal with his threat. If Rojo can come out on top of this duel, the overwhelming likelihood is a Manchester United win.
Yaya Toure vs Michael Carrick
The 31-year-old Ivorian has bagged 10 goals and eight assists in all competitions for the Citizens this season and constantly carries a threat. Michael Carrick, on the other hand, is enjoying somewhat of a career renaissance having returned from injury. It is no coincidence that Manchester United’s impressive recent form has happened with Carrick back in the side as he gives their back four an added air of calmness and will do his best to disrupt opposition attacks and pass out from the back.
David Silva vs Daley Blind
David Silva’s magician-like creativity and skill has led to 11 league goals for his side this season and Daley Blind will have to be on top of his game if the Spaniard is on form. It entirely depends upon which version of Silva does turn up to Old Trafford though, because is can vary from a world-beater to an invisible performance varying on his fortunes.
Juan Mata vs Fernandinho
Mata has finally been given a regular spell in the first-team to flourish and show what he can do, and how he is repaying the faith shown in him by Louis van Gaal. He has scored eight goals this season, including a brace in an impressive 2-1 win against Liverpool at Anfield. Fernandinho will look to stifle him in possession, putting physical tackles in and if he can stand up to that then he could come out on top.
Wayne Rooney vs Vincent Kompany
As is so often the way with Manchester United, a large proportion of their fortunes rest on their captain’s shoulders. This isn’t a criticism though, any football fan is well aware that not many players deliver more on the big stage, remember the spectacular overhead winner against City at Old Trafford? Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany will want to prove a point, having come under heavy criticism for his personal performances, but if he serves up a similar one to recently then Rooney could be in for a fruitful afternoon.