EPL 2016/17: What is Manchester United's Ideal XI for the Manchester derby?

Manchester United XI
Who will make the Manchester United XI to face Manchester City?

Midfield

Henrikh Mkhitaryan
Henrikh Mkhitaryan has made a miraculous recovery from a knee injury he sustained whilst away on national duty

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

The versatile Armenian is well able to hold his own on the right flank, and would cause Gael Clichy no end of problems. Mkhitaryan scored 13 goals and assisted 20 more for Borussia Dortmund last season, and though he has only shown glimpses at United, you can be sure that the best is yet to come.

He hasn’t started a match as yet this season, but with Mourinho announcing him fully fit, it certainly won’t hurt to chuck him in there.


Juan Mata

Mourinho has stuck with Marouane Fellaini in the middle this season, but perhaps Mata would be the better option for this game. The Spaniard, playing in a more central role, could unlock City’s defence with his superb passing ability.

He’s not that much of a physical specimen, yet with Pogba as his midfield partner, he wouldn’t have to worry too much about dropping back or anything of the sort.


Paul Pogba

The Frenchman is back at United after spending four successful years at Juventus and should have a huge impact on this match if he’s at his best.

Mourinho will need Pogba to dominate in the air, break up play, and push forward when the time is right. He may have to keep tabs on both Kevin de Bruyne and Fernandinho, so his concentration must be on point.


Marcus Rashford

The boy wonder may not get the nod for this one, but he’s certainly deserving. Rashford’s rise to fame has been remarkable, and he keeps backing the hype up with good performances every game.

He came on as a substitute to win United’s last game at the death, and the change in play was obvious when he was thrust into the action. It’s really hard to play him ahead of Anthony Martial, and that’s understandable. Yet Mourinho may find that he reaps the rewards in this one if the youngster starts.


Wayne Rooney

The captain has been under a lot of criticism lately, mostly for his performances for the England side, but he’s still top class and should get the nod in this one.

Rooney is one of United’s most creative players, and slotting in behind Zlatan, he could be quite dangerous. He carved out the opportunity for Rashford in the match vs Hull, and the Red Devils will need his influence in this one.

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