Manchester United have been told they have ‘no chance’ of beating Manchester City in the upcoming derby and are still way behind their rivals as a club.
Erik ten Hag’s side have been in superb form in recent weeks, winning their last six games across all competitions while they have also kept four clean sheets in a row.
The Red Devils are now just one point behind reigning Premier League champions City, although Pep Guardiola’s men have a game in hand.
The two rivals have already met once this season, with City romping to a 6-3 success at The Etihad. The Blue half of Manchester has also won the last three derby clashes by an aggregate of 12 goals to four.
United’s last win over City came in March 2021 and the two Premier League giants will go toe-to-toe again at Old Trafford on January 14.
But speaking ahead of that game, former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murpy has written off the Red Devils.
He told talkSPORT: “[Man Utd are] not going to beat Man City. Let’s get that straight.
“They’ve got no chance. [But] the one thing United look is resilient. They look like they are playing for the manager.
“They’ve got a fitness and hunger about them that we have not seen in a long time.
“The quality is there and they have got quality players. If you’ve got a good team ethos, a good work ethic and a decently organised side in terms of balance, structure and a plan – then the quality is always going to shine.”
United do have players to hurt City
While Murphy is adamant about a City win, he also thinks United have the players to trouble their rivals.
He added: “Bruno Fernandes is as creative as anyone. Marcus Rashford is playing out of his skin.
“You’ve got people like Christian Eriksen, who is an wonderful passer of the ball. Casemiro has come in and oh my god, his impact has been nothing short of sensational.
“They are dangerous. He’s got competition for places, which is great for the manager, he’s got rid of the Cristiano Ronaldo situation and there is a lot to be positive about.
“But, ultimately, if you’re comparing them to Man City, and even Arsenal at the moment, there are not many Man Utd players getting anywhere near the Man City side. Let’s be honest.
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“Man City are the yardstick. The [6-3] game earlier this season showed the problems Man Utd will have when they play top opposition.
“Even though Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes are both wonderful, creative footballers – at top level football, to win Champions Leagues and Premier Leagues – you can’t have them in the same midfield and win the league. They’re not defensive-minded enough.”
Before the two tussle in the league they are both in action in the FA Cup third round.
United host Everton at Old Trafford on Friday evening, while City take on Chelsea on Sunday in two all-Premier League ties.
Source: teamtalk.com
