Can Manchester City get closer to their bitter-rivals this season?

Manchester United and Manchester City go head-to-head in the Community Shield later today.

The game is likely to be a feisty affair. United have seen their local rivals inch closer to them in recent years.

Most United fans however feel that their bitter-rivals are still miles away from overthrowing them.

Status Quo

Manchester United are still the favourites to win the Premier League this season. And Manchester City are still third favourites behind the Red Devils and Chelsea. It seems like nothing has changed between the rivals.

Difference

That’s wrong though. Manchester City have signed a player that could be the difference between success and failure for them in the next few seasons. That player is Gael Clichy, no I’m kidding its striker Sergio ‘Kun’ Aguero.

At 24 years of age this boy has the world at his feet. He has everything to become a top player in the Premier League. He has pace, power and tremendous strength for a player of his size. He may come with a big price tag but I have a feeling he could be worth every penny of that money.

He looks set to start today’s game on the bench. Maybe City boss Roberto Mancini is thinking he can bring him on as an impact sub in the latter stages of the game.

Strengthened

Manchester United have also signed some good players this summer. England winger Ashley Young was a no-brainer really for Sir Alex Ferguson. He is versatile, quick and can take players on. He will prove to be an excellent buy no doubt.

I would put Phil Jones in the excellent buy category as well. The 19 year-old is one of the brightest young defensive talents in the country. He is very comfortable on the ball but comparisons with England captain John Terry are rather unfair at this stage. He can play as a centre-back and also as a defensive midfielder. This will provide United with more options, if needed.

I rate David de Gea as one of the best young keepers I have ever seen. I have stated my admiration for the young Spaniard before in my editorials. He has the foundations to go onto be the best keeper in the world. At 20 years of age he is still very young but I believe Sir Alex Ferguson has chosen the right replacement for the retired Edwin Van der Sar.

Harmony

Towards the end of last season Manchester City’s squad started to develop a good team spirit. Unfortunately that spirit could be harmed by Argentinian talisman Carlos Tevez stating he wants to leave. It remains to be seen how the Tevez saga has effected the Manchester City squad.

Closer

I have no doubts that Manchester City will be get closer to their rivals in the new campaign. However I still believe that Manchester United are ahead of their rivals. The champions have been there and done that in the Premier League title race and have the experience to clinch another league title.

Can Manchester City challenge United in the Premier League title race next season?