Manchester Derby Match Preview

On Saturday, Manchester United make the short crosstown trek to the Etihad for one of the stranger derbies in recent memory. If the Reds lose, they face the depressing prospect of watching their hated rivals celebrate the Premier League title right in front of them. But, because of Manchester City’s Champions League quarterfinal on Wednesday (and the second leg next week), Pep Guardiola might field a weakened side.

Whether on Saturday or in the weeks to come, City will win the 2017/18 Premier League. They hold an insurmountable 16 point lead atop the table — with a staggering +67 GD to boot. The Blues have been superb from start to finish, at least when playing anyone but Liverpool. Even so, United can at least spare themselves the indignity of a front row seat for City’s coronation.

The Manchester derby undoubtedly represents United’s toughest game left on the schedule — and the most meaningful. While a win here would be huge in the race for second place, this one really comes down to pride. City may be shoo-ins for the Premier League title, but United can exact a small bit of satisfaction by getting a result at the Etihad. Let’s keep the noisy neighbors quiet for at least one more week.