Amorim: United Fully Prepared for City Clash

Manchester United coach Rúben Amorim might consider fielding veteran defender Jonny Evans as the team prepares to face Manchester City in Sunday’s Premier League derby, despite United’s overall healthy squad.

Evans, 36, has been out since Amorim’s debut—a 1–1 draw against Ipswich Town on November 24—but returned to training before United’s 2–1 Europa League victory over Viktoria Plzeň on Thursday. “Some players felt fatigue towards the end of the match, which was intense and chaotic,” Amorim said, “but I think everyone will be physically ready for Sunday. Jonny (Evans) is already training.”

Aside from Luke Shaw’s absence due to injury, Amorim has most of his squad available. Leni Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo, recently recovered from long-term injuries, were unused substitutes against Plzeň.

Since taking over after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, Amorim has secured three wins across all competitions, though United has only won one league match under his guidance, leaving them 13th in the table.

Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has hit a rough patch, winning just once in their last ten matches. They currently trail league leaders Liverpool by eight points, with Liverpool having a game in hand.

Despite City’s struggles, Amorim remains focused on his own team: “I don’t think about their form. We’re facing a top-class opponent, and my priority is solving our own problems and preparing to win on Sunday.”

Amorim dismissed rumors linking him to Manchester City as a potential successor to Guardiola, whose contract now extends two more years: “No, I’ve never been contacted by City. When Manchester United approached me, I had no doubts because I already felt drawn to the opportunity.”