Manchester United enter Sunday's derby against Manchester City trailing their fierce rivals by 19 points.
The gulf between the old foes extends to more than just the Premier League table too. In terms of infrastructure, recruitment, youth development and so much more, City are leading the way in England's second city (sorry Birmingham).
Despite this, United are not an entirely busted flush and there are still some members of Ralf Rangnick's squad that could add something to the Cityzens' ranks...
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Ederson (GK) - David de Gea has been having a decent season – only Illan Meslier has made more saves in the Premier League this term. However, we have to give this spot to Ederson. The Brazilian's save percentage is basically the same and his distribution is leaps and bounds above De Gea's.
Kyle Walker (RB) - Still doing the business at 31-years-old, Walker has ironed out mistakes from his game this season – one bizarre Champions League red card aside. There's no way Diogo Dalot nor Aaron Wan-Bissaka are getting in here.
Raphael Varane (CB) - Varane's move from Real Madrid was not the instant hit most were expecting. He has looked more assured in recent weeks, though.
Aymeric Laporte (CB) - With Ruben Dias out for the next four to six weeks, Laporte's composure at the heart of the back four is going to be even more important.
Joao Cancelo (LB) - Cancelo had been quietly excellent before this season, but he has taken his game to new heights recently. He plays left-back in an intriguing way, spending a large portions of matches in a midfield position where he pulls the strings, scores and assists.
2. Midfielders
Rodri (DM) - The player who makes the most effective team in the Premier League tick. Replacing Fernandinho was always going to be nigh-on impossible, but Rodri has managed it without breaking sweat.
Kevin De Bruyne (CM) - Tragically, injuries may mean the De Bruyne's peak has come and gone. On his day he remains unplayable.
Bernardo Silva (CM) - A master at finding space in congested areas, Bernardo glides around the pitch like a gazelle week after week. He is not just a pretty face though. He's also completed 40 key passes this season.
3. Forwards
Riyad Mahrez (RW) - Mahrez has been in scintillating form this term, bagging 19 goals in just 32 games in all competitions. The standout in City's seemingly endless rotation of top-class forwards.
Cristiano Ronaldo (ST) - Ronaldo has only scored once in 2022 which, quite obviously, is not very good at all. However, we reckon he might have done enough in his prior to career to warrant selection here – particularly as City don't really own a striker these days.
Jadon Sancho (LW) - After a tricky start Sancho has grown into his role at United well in February. If he can keep this up United fans will be very happy.
Source : 90min