Reports: Manchester United star suffers injury setback ahead of derby

What’s the story?

Manchester United were keen getting Eric Bailly fit for the derby tonight vs Manchester City. But their efforts have made things worse for the player.

The Ivory Coast defender has been ruled out for another couple of weeks. Jose Mourinho confirmed that Bailly will not feature in the derby but now, it's being reported by The Sun that he will be out until January first week.

In case you didn’t know...

Bailly hasn't played since November 5th – the day United lost 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The centre-back was expected to be fit in time for the festive fixtures but has not managed to get back to full fitness.

The heart of the matter

Eric Bailly was set to return for Manchester United in the middle of December but the defender has suffered a setback. Jose Mourinho was confident of his return at least in time for derby but this has come as huge blow to the manager.

“Bailly I think has a chance for the weekend'” said the manager on November 21st in regards to Bailly's fitness but it's all gone downhill ever since.

Manchester United will have Phil Jones and Chris Smalling in the heart of the defence tonight vs their local rivals, Manchester City. The two Englishman will have a very tough time handling Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus and it has left Mourinho worried.

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Author’s Take

Manchester United are fighting for the title this season and this is a huge blow for them. With the festive jam-packed with so many Premier League fixtures, Jose would have wanted a fully fit squad but what he's got is a depleted team.

Zlatan and Fellaini are also facing a late fitness test ahead of the derby while the manager has been repeatedly saying that Matic plays with an injury.