The Blues are unbeaten so far but United are going well too, lying second in the U18 Premier League, so it’s certain to be an entertaining match at the Academy Stadium.
Both sides have been in fine goal scoring form; City beating both Liverpool and Everton comprehensively while United have put five past their opponents in each of their last three matches.
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Sancho v Tanner
Fresh from his goal on his UEFA Youth League debut during Tuesday’s victory over Borussia Monchengladbach, Jadon Sancho is ready to be City’s chief creative force in their Manchester derby.
The 16-year-old left winger has already scored two identical goal of the season contenders - cutting in on his right foot and curling a shot inside the top corner against West Brom and Everton. Despite not scoring in the 7-0 demolition of Liverpool, Sancho was a crucial cog in City’s destructive machine on the day.
He will come up against the versatile George Tanner, who is an attacking midfielder by trade but has started the season at right-back.
Latibeaudiere v Gomes
Joel Latibeaudiere has been an imposing figure in the centre of City’s defence so far this season. The 16-year-old has been handed the captain’s armband by Head Coach Lee Carsley and it has proven to be an inspired choice as the English defender has starred throughout the unbeaten run.
He’s sure to have his hands full on Saturday when he comes up against United’s attacking midfielder, Angel Gomes.
Gomes often operates in the ‘number 10’ role but his late runs and unpredictability have given him a reputation years beyond his experience. Both Latibeaudiere and Gomes are exceptionally composed in a one-on-one situation so this is sure to be an individual battle of the highest quality.
Visit mancity.com/tickets to be at the Academy Stadium for the 12pm kick-off before Pep Guardiola’s first team face Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium.
