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Manchester United and Manchester City go head to head in the FA Cup final and this is just no ordinary Manchester Derby, there is so much history at stake.
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has an opportunity to stop Pep Guardiola’s Man City team from achieving the historic treble, the same feat the Red Devils managed in 1999.
It is also an opportunity for United to win their second trophy of the season after their Carabao Cup triumph.
Here are 5 ways Ten Hag can stop Manchester City.
1. Employ a high press
Ten Hag must instruct his players to press high and allow City very little time on the ball. Rodri, Gundogan, and De Bruyne must be harried constantly to throw them off their game.
Erling Haaland often needs just one chance to score, so if the supply line can be cut off then the Red Devils might stand a chance.
2. Fred & Casemiro must start in midfield
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When the Red Devils defeated City back in January, they did so partly due to an energetic midfield display, full of grit and industry. Fred and Casemiro started together that day and they must do same again.
3. Wan Bissaka must start over Dalot at right-back
United will likely be under pressure for most of the game with City’s attacks predominantly on the left-hand side with Jack Grealish.
Ten Hag must ensure he has his best man for the job in Aaron Wan-Bissaka who will provide defensive solidity and is excellent in 1V1 battles.
4. Make the most of set-pieces
For all their greatness, Guardiola’s men are susceptible to set-pieces.
28% of their expected goals conceded came from set-pieces this season. Over the just concluded PL season, City conceded 33 goals with 11 of those coming from set-pieces, including a handful from the second or third phase.
Man City vs Man United: 3 things Guardiola must do to keep treble hope alive
5. Pick your moments
The team must be patient and not rush things. The speed and incisiveness of Marcus Rashford means there is always an outlet and with Bruno Fernandes’s ability to unlock most defenses, Ten Hag’s men will always get a chance and they must take it when it arrives.
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