As the Manchester derby approaches once more, it’s time to look at the Combined XI of Manchester City and Manchester United.
Such is the dominance of Man City in recent years, it would have been very easy to just make this piece a sea of blue and include the entire City squad. Nevertheless, we have managed to just about include some Manchester United players.
De Gea
Probably the best ‘keeper in the world right now, although there was a very strong call from within The Football Faithful office to stick City ‘keeper Ederson in for his all-round footballing ability. However, as a shot stopper, there is nobody better than De Gea, so he just about gets the nod.
Walker
Considering the competition in the United side at right-back, Antonio Valencia or Ashley Young, there was no contest.
Stones
Has really kicked on in the last 12 months, and with United’s defence looking all at sea, a comfortable selection at the heart of the defence.
Laporte
Having conceded just four goals this season in the league, it’s unsurprising to see another City defender in the combined XI, and Aymeric Laporte has started every single game for the Premier League champions.
Shaw
We could have quite easily made it four out of four in the defence with the inclusion of Benjamin Mendy, and while the Frenchman has better attacking stats so far this season, the improvement in Luke Shaw and his levels of maturity see him just edge into the side.
Fernandinho
The underrated element of the City midfield, bringing the ball out from the back, and moving it on to the plethora of danger men in his side.
David Silva
Still one of the finest players in the Premier League, and shows no signs of slowing despite his advancing years and is as crucial to the City side as he has ever been.
Pogba
Another controversial pick, but the ultimate up-and-down footballer edges his way into the team due to his improved performances of late. Despite what we read about his inconsistencies, he has scored 14 goals and laid on 17 assists in the Premier League, more than any other United player during his time at the club. Let’s not forget his influence on the last Manchester derby too.
Sterling
A polarising figure, but really his stats for Manchester City in the last season-and-a-half speak for themselves. 24 goals and 16 assists for a player who is often accused of lacking an end product ain’t bad at all.
Aguero
Has a goals/game ratio similar to that of the Premier League legend that is Alan Shearer – and already has netted seven league goals and provided four assists this season. A truly incredible player.
Martial
Another tough pick, but we decided to go on current form, with Anthony Martial just edging it over Leroy Sane. Scored five goals in his last four league games.
Do you agree with our choices? If not, who would you swap? Leave a comment below.
