Trophy challengers

Thursday, 11/08/2011

After Sunday’s thrilling Community Shield between Manchester United and Manchester City it’s clear that both clubs are going to have a major say in the destination of the Premier League this season, but which team is looking in better shape ahead of the big kick-off this weekend?

Manchester City have again flexed their financial muscles in the transfer market, bringing in Sergio Aguero as well as defenders Stefan Savic and Gael Clichy but the potential loss of Carlos Tevez has clouded their pre-season preparations.

Tevez was missing at Wembley on Sunday and City certainly looked a less dynamic side without him. As well as his attacking threat, the Argentine’s workrate and ability to put defenders under pressure make him a vital part of the way City pressurise the opposition.

Sergio Aguero is a capable replacement for his countryman going forward but it will remain to be seen whether he can match the all-round attributes that Tevez provides.

For United it was a mixed day for their summer signings. Ashley Young played with confidence and style and appeared as though he’d been a Manchester United player for years. Phil Jones looked decent when he came on, but new goalkeeper David de Gea, the long-term replacement for the recently retired Edwin van der Sar, was at fault for both of City’s goals. The young Spaniard will need to toughen up both physically and mentally to adapt to the English game and it is imperative that he starts the season well for the Champions.

Other positives for Sir Alex Ferguson will be the performances of two of his central midfielders, Anderson and Tom Cleverley. The young Englishman showed composure and vision in the second half and Anderson looked as good as he has done for a few seasons in the first, linking play with confidence and getting forward to good effect.  

Another United youngster, Danny Welbeck, was also impressive up front alongside Rooney and the Red Devils have excellent options on the wing and in the striking positions. The much-protracted transfer of Wesley Sneijder could still go ahead and if the Dutch World Cup star does arrive at Old Trafford, United’s squad would seem every bit as strong as City’s.

Roberto Mancini’s men will have the added pressure of dealing with a Champions League campaign for the first time and that might hamper their Premier League title aspirations. Without Tevez a lot of pressure be on the slight shoulders of David Silva to bring creativity to the team and, like United, the signing of one last attacking midfielder could be key.

Whatever happens, if Sunday’s game is anything to go by, footy fans are likely to be in for another exciting Premier League season and it’s conceivable that both Manchester clubs will be fighting it out for all the major trophies

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