Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim heads into Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League derby against Manchester City with a nearly full-strength squad. The Red Devils are bolstered by the potential return of veteran defender Jonny Evans, who has resumed training following an injury.
The 36-year-old Evans, sidelined since Amorim’s managerial debut—a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town on 24 November—was back in training before United’s 2-1 Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen on Thursday. Amorim expressed optimism about his squad’s fitness.
“Some players were tired at the end of the game because of the transitions—it was a crazy match. But I think everyone will be fit and ready to win on Sunday. Jonny [Evans] is already training,” Amorim said.
While Luke Shaw remains unavailable due to injury, Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo, who recently returned from extended layoffs, were on the bench against Plzen but did not feature.
Despite City’s poor recent form—just one win in their last 10 matches—Amorim downplayed any advantage.
“We will face a great opponent. I’m more focused on our problems and what we need to do to win the game,” the 39-year-old manager stated.
Sunday’s clash marks Amorim’s fourth Premier League game in charge of United, who currently sit 13th in the standings. His tenure has seen mixed results, with only one league victory since replacing Erik ten Hag.
Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, are enduring a rough patch. They trail league leaders Liverpool by eight points and have struggled to find consistency this season. However, Amorim dismissed rumors he was ever considered a successor to Guardiola.
“Never. I never had conversations [with City],” Amorim said. “When Manchester United approached me, I had no doubts. This was my only option.”
The Manchester Derby promises a fascinating encounter as both teams look to overcome their respective challenges. Kickoff is set for Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.
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