Manchester City have made a rare decision in a bid to get the atmosphere going for the huge derby clash with Manchester United.
The two teams will compete in the 197th Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, commencing at 16:30.
Currently, United holds a higher position than City in the league standings after three matches, with Pep Guardiola’s squad experiencing consecutive losses to Spurs and Brighton, following a 4-0 victory against Wolves.
City is in urgent need of a return to winning form to kickstart their season, and they have an ideal chance to achieve this against their fierce rivals.
In the lead-up to the match, it has been revealed that City is implementing changes to enhance the atmosphere.
The 1984 supporters’ group, which frequently collaborates with the club, has announced that the PA system will be silenced a few minutes before the teams emerge from the tunnel, aiming to foster a unique atmosphere.
On X, the group stated: “The club has agreed to turn off the PA for a few minutes before the teams come out on Sunday, allowing fans to generate their own atmosphere. We encourage everyone to take their seats promptly!”.
City has previously adopted similar measures for significant matches, ceasing all music to allow supporters to sing, chant, and provide their neighbors with a daunting reception.
In last season’s encounter at the Etihad, City was ahead 1-0 thanks to a header from Josko Gvardiol as the match approached its final moments, only to squander their lead.
Bruno Fernandes equalized with a penalty in the 88th minute after a lapse in judgment from Matheus Nunes, before Amad Diallo scored a dramatic winner in stoppage time.
Man City and Man United injury news
It has been indicated that City may be missing as many as 13 players, with Omar Marmoush added to the injury roster following a knee injury sustained while on international duty with Egypt.
This setback came after John Stones withdrew from the England squad due to “minor muscle issues,” while Nico O’Reilly and Rico Lewis also stepped back from Under 21 responsibilities with the Three Lions. Additionally, Rayan Cherki has been sidelined for two months due to a thigh injury.
On a positive note for City, players such as Phil Foden, Savinho, Gvardiol, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Abdukodir Khusanov are expected to regain their fitness soon.
Newly signed goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who joined for £26 million from Paris Saint-Germain on transfer deadline day, may be set to make his debut for City.
Similarly, United might witness a goalkeeping debut in the derby, having effectively replaced Andre Onana with 23-year-old Belgian Senne Lammens.
The Red Devils are likely to be without Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount for several weeks, as both were forced to leave the pitch during the dramatic win against Burnley.
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