Manchester City are facing a defensive crisis ahead of the derby with Ruben Dias and John Stones among several stars ruled out.
The champions are dealing with a significant shortage of central defenders after Ruben Dias was confirmed to be out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury.
With Josko Gvardiol also recovering from surgery on a fractured tibia and John Stones still unfit, Pep Guardiola is forced to get creative with his backline. The City boss admitted today that the physical toll of the festive period has left his squad exhausted.
On a brighter note, Rayan Ait-Nouri has returned from the Africa Cup of Nations earlier than expected, providing a versatile option for the left flank.
Guardiola will also look to integrate young defender Max Alleyne, who was recently recalled from a loan spell at Watford.
Despite the setbacks, the manager remains confident in the spirit of his team, urging them to rise to the challenge of facing a Manchester United side buoyed by the arrival of Michael Carrick.