Manchester United’s clash with Manchester City on Saturday is the 189th derby between the sides.
Having not beaten our neighbours since 2021, Erik ten Hag’s Reds will be striving to put the record straight when Pep Guardiola’s side visit Old Trafford for the 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Going into the match, Erik’s side are in fine form, winning our last eight matches in all competitions.
Before United lock horns with the Blues, we asked supporters which Red they feel will be the key difference-maker against our local rivals, and they agreed on one man: Casemiro.
“It’s Casemiro,”
said one fan, when asked who United’s most important player against City will be. “He’s going to be able to control the game and I think he’s definitely the key man to us winning on Saturday.”
Another supporter agreed, adding: “I think Casemiro [will make the difference for United]. I think controlling that midfield will be key.”
The Brazil midfielder did not start in the defeat at the Etihad Stadium earlier in the season, as he was still getting used to life in Manchester. Most recently, he came off the substitutes' bench with half an hour remaining in Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Charlton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
The world-class performer expertly broke up play, as usual, and also played key roles in the Reds’ second and third goals. Casemiro’s superb pass to the right unleashed Facundo Pellistri, who subsequently assisted Marcus Rashford for his first goal of the match.
Our no.18 then turned provider, caressing a pass through with the outside of his boot to Marcus, who completed his brace and made it 3-0.
Casemiro has had a monumental impact since arriving from Real Madrid in the summer, and our fans will be hoping he continues his rich vein of form, against City on Saturday.
DO YOU AGREE?
Will Casemiro be our key man against City this weekend?
To give your thoughts on the midfielder, or to offer an alternative option for United’s difference-maker on Saturday, tweet us @ManUtd or head to our Facebook page!