Manchester City vs Manchester United: 5 key battles that could decide the derby | Premier League 2020-21

Two elite midfielders will go head-to-head on Sunday when Manchester United face Manchester City.
Two elite midfielders will go head-to-head on Sunday when Manchester United face Manchester City.

#3 Riyad Mahrez vs Luke Shaw

Manchester United v Manchester City - Premier League
Manchester United v Manchester City - Premier League

In a battle between two in-form players, Riyad Mahrez is sure to have a few attempts at beating Luke Shaw 1v1 on Sunday evening. Mahrez is one of the Premier League's most skillful players, and any fullback will have a task on his hands to keep the Algerian quiet.

Thankfully, for Manchester United, they have a left-back on the top of his game in Luke Shaw. The English international has been in great form this season, winning many of the individual battles he has participated in. Riyad Mahrez, too, needs to stay alert at all times and help his right-back when the Red Devils get the ball, because Shaw has been very effective going forward as well.


#2 Raheem Sterling vs Aaron Wan-Bissaka

One of the most anticipated winger-fullback match-ups right now, Raheem Sterling against Aaron Wan-Bissaka is a duel people would pay to watch. Sterling is one of the best wingers in Europe presently, and can embarrass any fullback on his day. However, his England teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka is one nut he is yet to crack.

In their previous meetings, Wan-Bissaka has emerged as the winner of their personal duels on most occasions. His tackling ability is undoubtedly incredible, so much so that even Raheem Sterling has failed to get the better of him.

However, having broken his Anfield curse earlier this year, one wouldn't bet against Sterling having a game to remember against Manchester United either. Wan-Bissaka must know that his record against Sterling will matter little when the two face off again.


#1 Bruno Fernandes vs Kevin De Bruyne

Fernandes hasn't enjoyed much success against the traditional 'Big 6'.
Fernandes hasn't enjoyed much success against the traditional 'Big 6'.

Albeit not a straight-up battle against each other, this is still very much a fixture headlined as a showdown between two of the best midfielders in the world right now. Kevin De Bruyne has established himself among the greats with jaw-dropping performances over the past few seasons. Bruno Fernandes is aiming to do the same, and is well on course.

However, the Portuguese's record against the 'Big 6' has been subject to harsh criticism from football fans around the world. He will get no bigger stage to prove his critics wrong than the Manchester Derby as he faces off against City's midfield supremo. Manchester United may not win the title this season, but Fernandes could secure many individual accolades with a performance to remember against Manchester City.


Also Read: Manchester United News Roundup: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer provides injury update, Red Devils pursue Barcelona youngster and more | 5th March, 2021

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Edited by S Chowdhury
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