Manchester, England – Manchester City enter Sunday’s derby against Manchester United under pressure, sitting a point behind their city rivals at a critical stage of the season.
This is the first time since December 2020 that City approach a Manchester derby trailing United in the Premier League standings. Pep Guardiola’s side, who suffered consecutive defeats before the international break, are in need of a turnaround.
United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, are not without problems of their own. A shock Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby and criticism from club legend Wayne Rooney about something being “broken” at Old Trafford have raised concerns. Yet they arrive at the derby buoyed by a dramatic win over Burnley.
Guardiola told the BBC that his focus remains firmly on his squad. “We always respect our rivals, but this is about us. It’s an important game to change the dynamic and I trust my players,” he said.
Squad overhaul brings risks
Last season was the first in eight years that City finished without a major trophy, forcing Guardiola into a sweeping rebuild. Key figures such as Kevin de Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish, Ilkay Gundogan, Ederson and Manuel Akanji have all departed, stripping the dressing room of vast experience.
In their place, City invested £350 million in 10 signings, betting on youth to close the gap on Liverpool, who strengthened with a record £415 million summer spend. Yet gaps remain, particularly at right-back, where youngster Rico Lewis has struggled. Injuries also mount, with Rayan Cherki ruled out for two months and doubts over John Stones.
City insiders told the BBC that training has been positive despite setbacks against Tottenham and Brighton, but acknowledged this is a defining week. After the derby, City face Napoli in the Champions League, followed by a trip to Arsenal.
Keeper carousel raises uncertainty
Another issue surrounds the goalkeeping department. Initially expected to stick with Ederson and Stefan Ortega, City shocked many by signing Gianluigi Donnarumma on deadline day, alongside Marcus Bettinelli and James Trafford.
Ederson was moved to Fenerbahce just 18 days after being named Guardiola’s first choice. Ortega remains, leaving City with four senior keepers. Former defender Nedum Onuoha told BBC Football Focus that Ederson’s exit will affect City’s style of play, as few can replicate his distribution skills.
Donnarumma, at just 26, arrives with Champions League pedigree and the stature Guardiola demands between the posts. “He is huge, he gives confidence and presence,” Guardiola said.
United have also faced goalkeeping uncertainty, signing Belgian Sanne Lammens but confirming Altay Bayindir will start at the Etihad on Sunday.
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