Erik ten Hag has named an unchanged Premier League starting XI to face Manchester City as he wants to show ‘trust’ in his players that have been performing well.
Manchester United return to Premier League action for the first time in 28 days on Sunday when they come up against neighbours City. Ten Hag’s side are currently on a four-game winning streak but have been unable to extend it for nearly a month after the league was postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the international break.
United’s last Premier League outing saw them pick up a 3-1 victory over the undefeated Arsenal and Ten Hag has decided to name the same starting XI that played that day, made possible by Marcus Rashford’s late return from an ankle injury. Some fans expected changes to be made to the side, with many wanting to see Casemiro come in for his first domestic start to help combat City’s strong midfield.
Manuel Akanji came to City as fourth of fifth-choice centre-back in a signing that basically had the Blues covering their bases, but he’s been available for four games now and has started all of them. Guardiola has been impressed with his performances but this is certainly his biggest test so far. Akanji and Ake is a partnership United might feel they can get at and it’s made harder with Rodri not being available.
Rodri missing is an obvious blow for City, but Gundogan starting as a No.6 gives the Blues the initiative to take the ball and keep on the front foot. While United retain their threat on the counter, that will not count for much if they do not get the ball in dangerous areas.
Brilliant goal from Antony, 1 positive at least …. #MCIMUN #MUFC pic.twitter.com/cruxQQLpqc
— 🔰#Glazersout🔰MUFC 99 (@MUFC76806149) October 2, 2022