The three best and worst performers from the Manchester derby

The 0-0 scoreline says it all. The Manchester derby failed to live up to expectations with both sides contributing to a boring game of football. The talent available to both teams should have lead to an enthralling match, but it never really got going.

Jose Mourinho was cynical and set his side up to counter attack, while Pep Guardiola tried to implement his usual possession-based playing style, but he didn’t have the personnel to execute it. If this match taught us anything, it’s that both teams are set for a busy summer, with a number of players on that field likely not to play in another derby again.

Here are The Boot Room’s three best and worst performers from Thursday’s Manchester derby.

The best

Kevin de Bruyne 

The Belgian was one of the only bright sparks for City throughout this game and whenever they broke away, the attacking intent always came through him. De Bruyne 100% of his take-ons and created five chances for his team.

With 10 crosses to his name, the Belgian was the creative spark, but he also threatened United’s goal himself. The midfielder had three attempts at goal, but he didn’t find the target once.

David de Gea

United’s whole defence executed Jose Mourinho’s gameplan perfectly but David De Gea’s presence at the back provided extra security. Eric Bailly and Daley Blind would have felt at ease knowing that if they were breached, the Spaniard behind them is more than capable of getting them out of jail.

De Gea kept a clean sheet for the 14th time this season and he continues to look like a player United really can’t afford to lose this summer.

Eric Bailly

Considering the number of games Bailly has featured in this season, the Ivorian’s performance was exceptional. The former Villareal centre-back marshalled Sergio Aguero immensely.

Bailly completed nine defensive the Etihad, including one superbly timed slide tackle in the box, and won 60% of his duels.