10 players that will miss the Manchester derby as United and City face selection headaches

On Sunday afternoon in the Premier League, Manchester City takes on Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag and Pep Guardiola (Image: 2023 Getty Images)

This weekend, the latest Manchester derby will be played at the Etihad Stadium.

In a crucial game for both teams, Manchester City hosts Manchester United. While United will be battling to guarantee they stay in the hunt for a European finish, City will be trying to keep pressure on fellow title contenders Arsenal and Liverpool.

Due to United’s injury list being far worse than that of their noisy neighbors, the two clubs will not be able to call on a variety of players. After being spotted hobbling following Wednesday’s FA Cup victory over Nottingham Forest, there were worries that captain Bruno Fernandes might be out for Sunday’s match. However, Erik ten Hag has allayed those worries. Raphael Varane, who was uncertain heading into the Forest match, is also expected to play at the Etihad.

Harry Maguire is one player the Red Devils will be missing; he was not expected to play on Wednesday. Ten Hag stated, “They [Varane and Fernandes] fought to be part [of it] and they came well out of the game,” in a statement on Thursday afternoon. They should be available on Sunday as well, I believe. We use the squad from yesterday because I don’t think any of the other players will be back for Sunday.

Rasmus Hojlund, who is anticipated to recuperate from his muscular problem by the middle of March, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martinez are all out.

With just two players out right now, City’s injury concerns aren’t as bad. Jack Grealish is unlikely to be deemed fit for this weekend after being substituted out in the 38th minute of Wednesday’s FA Cup victory over Luton Town. The groin injury that has prevented the England international from playing in 2023–24 appears to have returned.

After the Luton match, Guardiola spoke with reporters about the midfielder’s health: “I haven’t spoken to the doctor yet, but I believe he complained about the groin, so maybe something similar. Although he was in great shape, he was regrettably hurt early in the game once more. For him, this season has not been easy.”

Josko Gvardiol, the center back, is the other doubt for the derby after being left out of the matchday roster earlier this week for the fifth straight time. It’s unclear if the Croatian defender—who is 22 years old—will be able to play against United given his recent foot injury struggles. When asked about Gvardiol’s health earlier this week, Guardiola said, “He’s good too.” As to whether he will play against Luton, I’m not sure. He’s training with little discomfort. He didn’t train with us, but he’s almost ready to return. Training this afternoon, but everyone seems to be okay, I believe.”

The City manager is anticipated to give an update on Grealish and Gvardiol at his press conference on Friday prior to the game.