League Cup semi final to fizzle out at the Etihad
The third Manchester Derby of the season takes place amidst a flurry of tight fixtures for the two sides, in a variety of competitions. United appear to have regressed a touch this month, having shown progress towards the end of 2019, no result more impressive than their 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium in early December. With the aggregate score 3-1 to the Carabao Cup holders, the onus is all on the Red Devils to come at Pep Guardiola’s men, as they did in the league fixture. With the chaos Anthony Martial and co caused in the last visit to their noisy neighbours, defensive solidity will be a priority for the Premier League champions.
FA Cup distraction
Under pressure Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men managed a confidence building 6-0 win over Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park, with six individual goalscorers. The most eye-catching being the opening goal, a screamer into the top corner from around 25 yards from the modest boot of Harry Maguire. Putting to the back of most fans’ minds the back to back 2-0 losses at the hands of Liverpool and Burnley.
The hosts are a cool 17 points ahead of their local rivals, occupying second place without threatening to enter the title race. Meaning cup competitions take priority already at this point in the season. They are looking to win the League Cup at the third successive time of asking and bolstered their FA Cupbid on Sunday, easing past second tier Fulham by four goals to nil.
Squad depth
It is no coincidence how well City cope with multiple competitions, with the quality they have from the bench and on the fringes. Ilkay Gundogan and Gabriel Jesus have been two prime examples of this in recent years. The latter was joint second top scorer in the competition last term with four goals, doubling the tally of the man that keeps him out of Premier League action, the legend that is Sergio Aguero.
The former and regular Germany international is brilliant at freshening up midfield areas with his quick footwork and eye for a pass. Despite arguably never being first choice, the 29-year-old has amassed nearly 150 appearances since joining in 2016. Scoring 22 and assisting 21 in that time.
Due to Manchester United’s lack of cutting edge and City’s registration of back to back clean sheets, the holders will not let the Red Devils see such joy as they did in the league fixture. That along with the fact all the focus is on United to try and comeback will see this one become something of a damp squib.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
United won the battle but not the war, 1-0 on the night with a goal and red card from somewhat forgotten man Nemanja Matic. Still a pleasing display and result for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.