In the corresponding fixture last season Manchester City came to Old Trafford on the back of a 12 match beaten start to the season and comfortably won an encounter in which the scoreline made it seem closer than it was.
Despite the hype it soon became clear that neither of the Manchester teams would fight for the title. City were far too easy to get at, particularly down the flanks and Jose had a huge rebuilding job on his hands at a team that was a shadow of past glories.
Fast forward a year (OK – 14 months) and both sides have progressed. United won the Europa League to clinch a Champions League place while City secured one via the league.
Much was made of Pep’s summer spending but he has had the last laugh so far as his City side have become record breakers this season, and doing it with a style of football labelled as ‘another level’ by many pundits.
United have also looked like title winners and while they bare all the hallmarks of a Mourinho side – which has brought criticism from some fans – they are no less of a formidable opponent.
The differences in both sides can be put down to new signings. Last year, City’s fullbacks were too old and too slow to cope with Pep’s demands. Much was made of Kyle Walker’s transfer fee – that has quickly been forgotten.
In goal, Ederson is the epitome of calm whilst also possessing the footwork that would comfortably see him playing outfield. This has led to a resurgence in defence, with John Stones looking every bit a £50m player and even Nicolas Otamendi looking competent.
By contrast, Jose Mourinho also invested heavily, bringing in players who fit the mould of his sides. Romelu Lukaku was the striker they desperately needed, while Nemanja Matic was also a shrewd buy.
There was far too much pressure on ageing stars for Jose last season, particularly Michael Carrick and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Both these signings have helped in that department.
Paul Pogba (albeit missing for the derby through suspension following some controversial (many would say unprofessional) comments ) has improved after a patchy first season, constantly driving Untied forward – a trait missing from United’s midfield last season.
So what can we expect this time round? It will not be the open game it was at Old Trafford last season. Mourinho got it wrong and never looked like doing so again. It is more likely that it will be a repeat of the game at The Etihad, where United sat in, albeit they should offer more of an attacking threat this time round.
City will be happy with a point. United need a win. City will attack. The key is – what will United do?
