The Premier League live Manchester City derby is just around the corner and just a few weeks ago it seemed unlikely that United fans would have had any confidence in the outcome of this derby. But after Manchester United beat Tottenham Hotspur away and dramatically equalised in the final moments against Atalanta in the Champions League, it is believed that the spirit of the game against neighbours Manchester City is now relatively high. Meanwhile, City entered the clash after a mixed week, as City recovered from a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in the Premier League against Bruges in the Champions League. Both teams are hoping to take the three points they can show off in the Manchester City derby. Which players are most likely to start in the Manchester City derby?
Goalkeeper: Ederson Morais (Manchester City)
Edson had already achieved this before David De Gea. Both can be considered the best goalkeepers in the world, but De Gea is still recovering after a catastrophic downturn. The distribution of Brazilian abilities is much better and crucial under Pep Guardiola's leadership.
Centre-back: Ruben Díaz (Manchester City)
Arguably the best centre-back in world football, Ruben Díaz has been City's defensive rock since joining City in 2020. His leadership and defensive sense were crucial to City's double-winning season last season. Initially, some questioned his £65 million transfer fee, but after coming to Manchester City, he changed the condition of Manchester City's defensive and filled the gap left by Vincent Kompany, and is now undoubtedly Manchester City's best defender.
Centre-back: Emeric Laporte (Manchester City)
He was City's most important defender before signing Ruben Díaz, but has since declined slightly. However, he has already begun to regain the form he showed when he first signed in 2018. Rafael Varane will certainly have a place in Manchester City, but with the Frenchman's injury Laporte is the best option to be tied with Diaz.
Right-back: Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
Kyle Walker has been a starting right-back for England and Manchester City for some time and he has maintained that role in this team, with speed and defensive maturity being higher than Aaron van Bissaka. Walker's experience gives him an edge even more despite the fact that the quality of the two men in terms of defense is not much different.
Left back: João Cancelo (Manchester City)
Arguably City's best player of the season, both defensively and offensively. Cancelo has excelled at left-back since joining the club in 19 years, which puts him ahead of Luke Shaw, who has struggled poorly since the start of the campaign. The Manchester City defender has played a role in six goals this season and is certainly one of the best defenders in world football right now.
Defensive midfielder: Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri adapted to the Premier League and took over Fernandinho's place and is now an important part of Pep Guardiola's side. His excellent ability to hold the ball and interpret the game made him the perfect fit for Pep Guardiola's team. He is also a notch above Scott McTominay or Fred.