Here’s who makes it to our Manchester derby combined XI for EFL Cup
Manchester United square off against Manchester City for an EFL Cup semi-final fixture at Old Trafford in what could be a fantastic derby. The second Manchester derby of the season will determine who goes to Wembley for the final. The winner will face either Tottenham or Brentford.
Both sides have been in great form, boasting similar records in the last 5 games with 4 wins and a draw. United got past Everton in the quarters while City swept past Arsenal. With no second leg this season, a winner will emerge and if one were to pick a side, it wouldn’t be easy.
Manchester United Team News
There will be a few injuries to wiggle through for this game. Victor Lindelof could miss this game with his long standing back problem. The defensive duo of Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo are also expected to be out. There seems to be no other injuries for Solskjaer to deal with. Edinson Cavani will be serving the 2nd of his 3 game suspension after his comments on social media.
Manchester City Team News
City have been hit hard before the game with at least 6 players testing positive for COVID. Ederson, Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker, Ferran Torres, Eric Garcia and Tommy Doyle are all ruled out for the game. There also remains the case of Nathan Ake and Aymeric Laporte, who missed the Chelsea game. They could miss this one as well.
Combined Manchester derby XI
Formation: 4-4-2
David de Gea (GK)
With Zack Steffen as City’s option for the game, De Gea is a clear choice in goal for this one.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (RB)
While Cancelo would have been a good shout for the right-back spot, Wan Bissaka has done more than enough to merit a spot.
Eric Bailly (CB)
It’s hard to think of Eric Bailly making this list but such is Bailly’s ability. Capable of dealing with any forward on his best day, the Ivorian is a difficult man to get past.
Ruben Dias (CB)
The Portuguese has taken so very easily to this City side. Has been a very reliable presence in the absence of Aymeric Laporte.
Joao Cancelo (LB)
Cancelo has been used a lot at left-back this season and he has done very well in that role.
Fred (DM)
One of United’s most underrated players this season. Fred brings zeal and energy to the side.
Ilkay Gundogan (CM)
Quietly, Gundogan has again become an important part of the side. His recent goal scoring exploit also helps.
Bruno Fernandes (AM)
This man might be having a bad game and yet, he could end it with a goal or two assists. That’s how effective he can be.
Kevin De Bruyne (CM)
Perhaps the best midfielder in the country and for a good reason. The Belgian has got it all in his locker. Passing, shooting, scoring.
Marcus Rashford (ST)
A Mancunian through and through, Rashford may not have hit the numbers of last season but he has still managed a decent haul.
Sergio Aguero (ST)
There are few big-game players in the world and Aguero is one of them. The record scorer for the blue side of Manchester is an easy inclusion.
