The Manchester derby is an exciting fixture not only for the fans of Manchester United and Manchester City but also for the neutrals.
For Ruben Amorim, it will be his second taste of the clash at the Etihad Stadium after a dramatic victory last season.
Injuries have already forced his hand in some areas, with Diogo Dalot, Mason Mount, and Matheus Cunha all ruled out.
That means opportunities for others, with Benjamin Sesko pushing for his first Premier League start and Kobbie Mainoo in contention to control midfield for Manchester United.
Further forward, Bruno Fernandes could shift to a more advanced role, linking up with Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo.
Amad Diallo and Patrick Dorgu could start at wing-back. Amorim is trying to balance his squad as he prepares for Pep Guardiola’s side.
But the real intrigue has been at the other end of the pitch. Since deadline day, the goalkeeping situation at Old Trafford has sparked plenty of debate.
Andre Onana was sent out on loan to Trabzonspor, while Senne Lammens arrived from Royal Antwerp as a long-term option.
Many expected the Belgian to be thrown straight into action, particularly given the shaky form of the current number one.
Altay Bayindir has started the opening three league matches. He has conceded four times and taken the blame for at least two of those goals.
With the derby looming, supporters wondered if Amorim would make a bold switch. When pressed on the matter, the United boss kept it short: “Yes.” Bayindir will keep his place.
Amorim then expanded, adding:
“Altay is going to continue (in goal) because it’s a different league, a different country, different trainings, different ball, so we will try to maintain that. They will fight for the position. For this game, it is clear Altay will start.”
It is a huge call from Amorim, one that could define the outcome of this Manchester derby. The Turkish international has his manager’s faith. Now he must repay it on the biggest stage.
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