Erik ten Hag told reporters that “it’s clear” that Manchester United can rely on continuity as they seek five wins.
The Red Devils boss has opted for a line-up unchanged since their win over Arsenal, in a setup that looks set to pummel Manchester City at half-time.
“They want to dictate the game but we have to fight,” he told Sky Sports, suggesting counter-attacks will be the order of the day.
United received a boost with City’s line-up, with Rodri out injured.
However, Ten Hag is taking nothing for granted ahead of the derby.
“They will miss him, but they still have a good eleven,” he said.
Pep Guardiola seems to have opted for Ilkay Gundogan as a holding midfielder in his absence, in a team not unlike the one that lost the Champions League final against Chelsea in 2021.
As for United, Ten Hag has again insisted that his players must carry out their roles and responsibilities to the best of their ability and trust the system.
“When you follow the rules and the principles, you have a chance to win the game. It’s always about the process.
Having the right ingredients to succeed will also be essential in this difficult encounter.
“Against two great teams, the details will make the difference.”
With minutes to go in this derby clash, United fans are hoping those details have been honed in after a long break from club football.
