De Bruyne, Grealish or Foden? Which player should start in midfield for today’s Manchester derby?
Manchester Derby Midfield Dilemma: De Bruyne, Grealish, or Foden — Who Should Start for City?
Manchester City face a pivotal showdown at Old Trafford today in the final Manchester Derby of the season. With Champions League qualification on the line and pride at stake, Pep Guardiola’s midfield selection is under heavy scrutiny ahead of kickoff against rivals Manchester United.
City must secure all three points, and who lines up in midfield could heavily influence the outcome. One spot in midfield appears locked in — rising star Nico O’Reilly is expected to start. That leaves a competitive battle between Mateo Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan, and Bernardo Silva to partner him, with one final position likely to go to Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, or Phil Foden.
Last week, Grealish put in a strong performance in midfield against Leicester City, scoring his first league goal of the season and showcasing his ability to drift and create. His freedom in central areas seemed to unlock a more dynamic side of his game — something that could prove crucial against United.
However, Kevin De Bruyne is always a tempting option, especially on a big occasion like a derby. With his departure from City confirmed for the end of the season, many hope he has one last moment of brilliance left in him. Though he’s struggled for consistency this campaign, De Bruyne remains a player who can decide a game with a single pass or shot.
Phil Foden also remains in the mix. If he’s not deployed on the right wing, his inclusion in midfield adds a directness and energy that City often rely on in tight games.
Ultimately, Guardiola’s choice may come down to De Bruyne vs. Grealish for that final midfield slot, with Foden potentially operating out wide. Both offer something unique: Grealish brings fluidity and ball control, while De Bruyne offers experience and vision. Whoever gets the nod will be tasked with driving City forward in one of their most important matches of the season.
With their Champions League hopes potentially hinging on today’s result, City need their midfield to show up. Be it De Bruyne, Grealish, or Foden, the selected trio must rise to the occasion.
