Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot are all unable to participate in the upcoming match at the Etihad Stadium due to injuries. Amorim stated on Friday: “I am uncertain about the duration of their absence. We require these players to form a highly competitive team; however, we possess several capable players who are eager to compete. Therefore, we will remain competitive on Sunday, but they are unavailable and cannot assist us in this match.”
This situation necessitates that Amorim devise a strategy, particularly in the attacking department, to navigate the derby effectively. Last season, Amorim achieved victory at City and secured a 0-0 draw in the corresponding match at Old Trafford. Additionally, he triumphed over Man City with a score of 4-1 in his final match as the manager of Sporting CP before transitioning to the Red Devils.
In goal, Altay Bayindir will be selected for the fourth consecutive Premier League match. Amorim affirmed: “I have confidence in Altay. He is prepared to play and will indeed play.
“Altay will continue as the starter because this league is different, the country is different, and the training and ball are different. We aim to maintain that consistency, and he will compete for the position. Thus, it is evident to me that Altay will begin the match.”
With one selection decision made, we have anticipated how Amorim may arrange the team to mitigate the absence of Dalot, Mount, and Cunha.
1. GK – Altay Bayindir
Bayindir has struggled in the opening matches of the campaign but Amorim has confirmed he will start on Sunday ahead of Lammens.
2. CB – Leny Yoro
Yoro is certain to start in the backline after an impressive start to the new season.
3. CB – Matthijs De Ligt
De Ligt is currently the first-choice option for Ruben Amorim in central defence.
4. CB – Luke Shaw
Lisandro Martinez aims to return to action this month but Shaw is most likely to start the derby.
5. RWB – Amad Diallo
With Diogo Dalot injured, Amorim will be required to play the winger in a deeper role.
6. LWB – Patrick Dorgu
Dorgu struggled in the last few matches but is still the only real option on the left side.
7. CM – Casemiro
Casemiro is still the best defensive midfielder at the club and has started the season pretty well. He returned early from international duty to prepare for the derby clash.
8. CM – Kobbie Mainoo
With Mount and Cunha injured, Fernandes will be needed further forward. It leaves space for Mainoo in midfield and it’s a toss up between him and Ugarte – although supporters will be keen for the academy graduate to play
9. CAM – Bryan Mbeumo
Mbeumo shone against Burnley and is certain to be handed his first Manchester derby start.
10. CAM – Bruno Fernandes
Fernandes can move back into his more attacking midfield role with both Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha injured.
11. ST – Benjamin Sesko
With Mount and Cunha out, it is time for Amorim to put Sesko in from the start in a Premier League game
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