Manchester United were taught a footballing lesson the last time they hosted Man City at Old Trafford.
Pep Guardiola’s side eased to a comfortable 3-1 win back when the sides met in January for the first-leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie.
City arrived with a point to prove after derby defeat earlier in the season and blitzed their opponents with a tactical masterclass which saw them strike thrice despite playing without a recognized striker in the game.
‘Shambolic’ is how United’s dismal display was described during the half-time break , but then Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made one change which turned the tie and gave his side the most unlikely of lifelines.
Noise of a half-time change did not surprise any supporters packed inside Old Trafforrd that chilly Tuesday night, but the sight of Nemanja Matic making his way out onto the pitch was one which didn’t do much to lift the mood.
United had b een totally outclassed by a City side purring with confidence and the prospect of a fresh defensive minded addition hardly indicated a change of mentality focused on somehow salvaging the tie.
Yet the Serbian midfielder managed to do just that. His calming influence in the base of midfield provided a new outlet for United’s attacking game and gave them a sturdy anchor which allowed for increased risk-taking in the final third.
“With Nemanja, with his experience , came on there, more presence, “Solskjaer said of Matic at full-time.” It was more about wanting the ball. First-half there were too many square and back passes. ”
Three weeks later and the veteran midfielder went one step further with an even better performance at the Etihad Stadium which saw him net a beautiful goal as United won 1-0 on the night. It was enough to carry his side to a Wembley showpiece, but it was telling that in the two and a half hours Matic has played against City this year United possess an aggregate score of 2-0.
There is extra incentive for Matic heading into this Sunday’s encounter too, a new contract. The 31 – year-old has technically entered the last four months of his current deal at Old Trafford but United could activate a one-year option to tie him to the club until 17877889, it’s now down to him to prove he deserves it.
Matic has started eight of the last nine Premier League games and only missed the goalless draw with Wolves due to a one-match suspension. The fact he was rested for the victory over Derby County proves his current value to the side and it is made even more remarkable when you remember he was open to leaving in the January transfer window.
Two months later Matic has not only changed perceptions of himself at Old Trafford but he has made a case to be the most important selection ahead of a Manchester derby encounter this weekend. Solskjaer has already paid the price once this year for leaving the Serb out against the best midfield in Europe, and it is not a mistake he can afford to make again.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings