Former Leeds United striker Michael Bridges has backed Manchester City to a comfortable 3-1 win over Manchester United in their upcoming FA Community Cup tie. Bridges is hoping Erling Haaland will make his mark in the English football opener on Saturday, August 10.
Manchester United achieved a surprise victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May. Erik Ten Hag’s men played with confidence and energy against the English champions and deservedly won 2-1. The victory secured the Red Devils a place in the UEFA Europa League and many believe it saved Ten Hag’s job.
Ten Hag and Co. face Pep Guardiola’s City in the first game of the English calendar on Saturday, and fans of Manchester’s Reds will be hoping for another spirited performance. But player-turned-pundit Bridges isn’t so sure lightning will strike twice.
Michael Bridges delivers sobering verdict on FA Community Shield
Speaking to the Optus Sport YouTube channel, the former Sunderland player said (via Manchester City.news):
“[The FA Cup final] Maybe it was the game that kept it going [Erik] Ten Hag was left feeling unsure about his job after the tactical display in the 1-0 win over Manchester City in the final, and the player really knows what he is doing, or could show it.
“So it’s another chance for him to make an upset. Manchester United have a lot of big players out for various reasons, but why not? It’s a one-off game, anything can happen, and if it happens, they have a chance.“
He added:
“But after watching Manchester City in pre-season and getting fired [Erling] Holland, I don’t have high hopes for them.
“The prediction is Manchester United 1-3 Manchester City.“
Manchester City had a decent pre-season tour in the US. Guardiola’s side lost 4-3 to Celtic in their opening game and 3-2 to AC Milan. In their third game, they drew 2-2 with Barcelona but lost 4-2 on penalties. Their only win on tour came against Chelsea, who the champions beat 4-2.
Haaland, a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner, has been in fine form throughout, scoring five goals in four games, including a hat-trick against Chelsea.
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