Paul Merson has predicted the result of Sunday’s huge Premier League clash between Manchester City and Manchester United.
Manchester City aims to move past their disappointing August in a crucial ‘six-pointer’ match where local pride is also on the line.
The Citizens secured a 4-0 victory against Wolves in their season opener, but subsequently suffered defeats to Tottenham and Brighton before the international break.
Similarly, Manchester United has experienced a rough beginning to the season – Grimsby Town, need I say more – although they managed to defeat Burnley in their most recent match.
Paul Merson predicts 1-1 derby draw
Paul Merson has expressed his dissatisfaction with Manchester City, describing their performance against Tottenham as “terrible,” and he believes they are susceptible as they approach the match against their fierce rivals.
Simultaneously, the pundit pointed out that Manchester United required a penalty to secure a victory over Burnley, which he labeled as a “concern.”
Merson concluded by forecasting a 1-1 stalemate at the Etihad Stadium, although he mentioned that he would support Manchester United if compelled to select a victor.
“I thought Manchester United performed admirably the other day against Burnley,” he stated on Sportskeeda.
“It resembled the Manchester United of yesteryears. However, they still relied on a penalty at the end to clinch that match, which raises concerns in my opinion.
“Manchester City appeared to be in control until the substitutions altered the dynamics of the game for Brighton. I am searching for reasons to support City here, but honestly, I cannot find any!”
Merson further remarked: “City were dreadful against Tottenham at the Etihad. I genuinely believe that Manchester United’s attacking trio can pose a threat to them in this encounter.
“I assert this despite my belief that United will not secure a top-six finish this season, so you can imagine my current thoughts on City!
“I am inclined to predict a draw, but if someone insisted that I choose a winner, I would solely opt for Manchester United. I simply do not believe that Ruben Amorim’s team will lose this match.”
Manchester City provisional team news vs Manchester United
Eight City players who were previously doubts for the United game returned to training on Thursday, according to City Xtra.
They are Savinho, Phil Foden, Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rico Lewis, Kalvin Phillips, Nico O’Reilly and Marcus Bettinelli.
Rayan Cherki, Mateo Kovacic and Omar Marmoush have been ruled out for the game, and it remains to be seen whether John Stones and Rayan Ait-Nouri will be available.
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