Manchester United head into the derby at the Etihad with several fitness doubts, but this could be the perfect moment to take on Pep Guardiola’s side.
United’s concerns centre on
Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot. All three withdrew from international duty after picking up injuries in the 3–2 win over Burnley.
Cunha suffered a hamstring issue, Mount tweaked a muscle, and Dalot was sidelined with a muscular problem. Their participation remains uncertain, though medical staff will give them every chance to feature.
The brighter news for
United is the early return of Casemiro. Suspended for Brazil’s latest qualifier, he flew back to Carrington to rejoin training and is expected to start.
His leadership and experience could be decisive in midfield, where United have lacked control at times this season.
But while United are patching themselves up, City’s problems look even more pressing. Guardiola’s side are dealing with injuries including to key
players.
Omar Marmoush, Rayan Cherki, Mateo Kovacic, Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov John Stones, Phil Foden and Savinho are all in the treatment room.
Add to that a recent stutter in form — dropped points and uncharacteristic defensive lapses — and suddenly City look far less formidable than usual.
That combination of absences and inconsistency has led some to suggest this could be a rare opportunity for United.
Amorim will still need his team to be disciplined, but with Casemiro back, Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings, and City’s midfield weakened, United may fancy their chances of causing an upset.
For Amorim, the derby is both a test and a chance to shift momentum. United’s injuries are a concern, but with City not at their best, the stage is set for the Old Trafford side to take advantage.