The worst kept secret in football is all but confirmed after various reports emerged last night stating that Jose Mourinho has signed a pre contract with Manchester United. “But then you have to analyse I think”.
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The United boss also reminded that West Ham United, who are one place above the reds in the table, have Europe’s primary competition within their grasp.
This leaves United very little wiggle room and is a clear indication that they intent to announce that Mourinho is coming to Old Trafford before the Premier League season ends. The Red Devils are sixth, four points behind City in fourth and should they lose this game against their rivals, they might just kiss their top four dreams goodbye. On the other hand, City have managed three wins in their last six home games, but have only won one of their last five league games.
No longer the “noisy neighbours” contemptuously dismissed by former United manager Alex Ferguson, City have emerged as a genuine force in the Sheikh Mansour era and victory for them today would strengthen the perception that they have usurped United as Manchester’s biggest team.
“City played on Tuesday, but that was the same when we played Arsenal a few weeks ago – and we beat them”.
The only reason Manchester City might still qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season is because the English top flight league is perhaps at its weakest point in two decades.
“I think that a derby is always risky, regardless of the position of both teams”.
However, Pellegrini will continue to be without Kevin De Bruyne, Fabian Delph and Samir Nasri through injury.
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Ashley Young and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson could also feature after returning to training following injury.
