Pep Guardiola said he had no qualms about giving the Chilean his debut at Old Trafford and he’s been as good as his word.
Team:
Bravo, Sagna, Stones, Otamendi, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Silva (c), Nolito, De Bruyne, Sterling, Iheanacho
Bench: Caballero, Zabaleta, Fernando, Navas, Sane, Clichy, A Garcia
Possible tactics:
City’s fluid formation will see plenty of interchanging throughout but expect Raheem Sterling and Nolito to move positions throughout.
Skipper David Silva and Fernandinho look likely to play deeper with Kevin De Bruyne in the No.10 role.
John Stones is likely to pit his wits with Zlatan Ibrahimovic while Leroy Sane starts on the bench.
Battles to be won:
Fernandinho will need to out-muscle Marouane Fellaini in the engine room and the Blues will aim to bypass Paul Pogba as much as possible.
Bacary Sagna could to be up against international team-mate Anthony Martial at some point today – probably why he’s got the nod over Pablo Zabaleta this afternoon.
Big afternoon for Kelechi
Kelechi Iheanacho is up against Bailly and Blind this afternoon - the young Nigerian needs to snap up any chances that fall his way and be strong in possession.
United starting XI and bench:
