Defence
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Right back: Antonio Valencia
The Ecuadorean has made a great start to the season under Mourinho and is certainly the club’s best option at left back. His displays have been nothing short of spectacular thus far. And having served as a winger before being shifted to the full-back position, Valencia is able to run at defenders and operate on the flank with pace and efficiency.
Nolito could shift to the forward position for City, with Sergio Aguero to serve the first of his three-match ban. This means that Valencia could be up against Fabian Delph or new-boy Leroy Sane, both of whom poses quite a threat.
Centre-back: Eric Bailly
Another player getting top marks this season, Eric Bailly has adjusted quite well to his new surroundings. Mourinho bought the centre-back for £30m from Villarreal this summer, and he already seems like money well spent. Bailly is a great tackler and is good at recovering possession as he intercepts with astute timing. He can also dribble the ball up the field out of defence.
Fortunately, he won’t be facing Aguero just yet, but Nolito does present great danger up front for City and Pep Guardiola may play him at the point of attack. The Spanish boss also has the option of playing Kelechi Iheanacho. And Bailly will need to put another great defensive performance in if he is to help his team win this first derby.
Centre-back: Daley Blind
Daley Blind has proven quite the revelation since being shifted from midfield to centre-back. The Dutchman is good at tackling and ball interception as well, but his excellent vision and ability to pass the ball sets him apart from United’s other defenders.
Like Bailly, he won’t be facing the prolific Aguero on Saturday. However, he will need to give a good account of himself in Mourinho’s backline, as he's more than likely to start.
Left-back: Luke Shaw
The 23-year-old full-back was a doubt for this match, however, Mourinho said that he is fit to play, speaking in his Friday presser ahead of the clash. Shaw was sidelined for most of last season after suffering a gruesome leg break in a match against PSV Eindhoven last September, but his return to fitness has boosted the side.
He will have his work cut out for him if he does play, though. With Raheem Sterling sparkling under Guardiola this season, it will take a mammoth performance from Shaw to keep the young attacker quiet.
