Five reasons for Manchester United to be positive ahead of the derby

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Manchester United face Manchester City this weekend, here are five reasons to be positive ahead of a very important game.

The Manchester Derby is huge, and this season is no different with both sides desperate for a win.

For Manchester United a win would make it four wins in a row, continuing on the road to recovery this season.

It would also see United move within three points of their City rivals.

So ahead of the game, here are three reasons to not only be confident but positive…

Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane look solid

It seems now that Erik ten Hag has found his preferred defensive duo with the absence of Lisandro Martinez.

Harry Maguire has been absolutely excellent and has been praised by Ten Hag in recent weeks.

The return of Raphael Varane too which has come at a much needed time.

Andre Onana finding form

Andre Onana had an awful opening few months for United since joining from Inter Milan, but now seems to be turning a corner.

Onana won man of the match mid-week against Copenhagen, making the crucial penalty save in added time.

A real clutch moment from Onana, which should give him a great deal of confidence heading into this weekend.

He will also have the confidence of his excellent Champions League final display against Man City last season.

Marcus Rashford is always up for this game

Marcus Rashford’s form this season has been really troubling, however if there is any game he will turn up for, it’s this one.

Rashford embraces the big occasions and there is none bigger than the Manchester Derby.

With United likely to use Rashford on the break where he thrives, he could kick-start his season here.

City haven’t been at their best

Weaknesses in Man City have been on show lately, with the absence of Rodri having a profound effect on their performances.

While he is back, the method to victory is there, stop Rodri and you stop City.

Mason Mount would be perfect for this, have him stick to Rodri like glue and prohibit him from building out from the back.

Counter-attacking football is where United thrive

As terrible as this is, playing City will likely lead to a better performance.

United will sit deep, absorb pressure and then counter with speed and it will probably work as it did under Ole and last season for Ten Hag.

Don’t be surprised to see a slim win here for United, but it simply would be papering over the cracks.