The English Premier League title race is surely between Manchester City and Manchester United at the moment, but which Manchester-based club has the advantage?
As a Manchester United supporter, it pains me to admit that City have the superior side, and in turn the best chance of winning the Premier League title.
It may be painful to say or write, but it’s the truth.
Squad Depth is Key
City have the deepest side in the Premier League, and perhaps are only second in the world to Real Madrid in that category.
Depth and quality come to mean a lot during the latter stages of the season, and that’s one reason why I believe that City will hoist the Premier League trophy in May.
Loss of Nemanja Vidic
With Nemanja Vidic out for the season, United lack not only their rock at the back, but their captain.
Losing Vidic may not effect United against the likes of Bolton Wanderers, but it will surely effect the Red Devils against the better Premier League sides such as Manchester City.
Manchester City’s Starting XI
Furthermore, Roberto Mancini’s starting XI is also far superior to Sir Alex Ferguson’s and there is no denying that.
Goal-keeper: Joe Hart
Defenders: Micah Richards, Joleon Lescott, Vincent Kompany and Gaël Clichy
Midfielders: Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry, Samir Nasri and David Silva
Forwards: Sergio Agüero and Mario Balotelli
I still can not figure out why Gareth Barry starts over Nigel de Jong, but that would just be icing on the cake for City.
To be perfectly honest, City’s starting XI looks more like an all-star team than a club.
Also, do not forget that Mancini has the likes of James Milner, Edin Dzeko, Adam Johnson and Kolo Toure on the bench.
That’s a pretty good side, eh?
Manchester United’s Starting XI
In retrospect, United have a strong side, but lack the quality and depth that City possess, especially in midfield.
Goal-keeper: David de Gea or Anders Lindegaard?
Defenders: Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra
Midfielders: Michael Carrick, Ryan Giggs, Nani and Antonio Valencia
Forwards: Wayne Rooney and Javier “El Chicharito” Hernandez
Transfer Window
Between the two sides, United have needs that they may want to assess in the January window.
Bringing back Paul Scholes, may provide inspiration for the club, but how long will that last?
An injection of youth is certainly needed at Old Trafford, but the answer may be closer than you think.
Highly rated teenage starlets Paul Pogba and Ravel Morrison could be the future of Manchester United, but they need first team football sooner rather than later if they are to stay at the Theatre of Dreams.
Prediction
Despite their dip in form, City are still top of the Premier League and I fully expect Mancini to keep them there until the end of the season.
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
