Manchester City vs Manchester United preview: Jose Mourinho concerned by slow starts

Posted Sunday, November 11, 2018 by Skysports.com

Jose Mourinho admits Manchester United cannot keep coming from behind ahead of a test against rivals Manchester City this weekend.

Mourinho's side were 2-1 winners in Juventus in the Champions League this week, ending their Italian hosts' unbeaten start in all competitions, but have conceded the first goal in recent games several times - including against Chelsea, Huddersfield and Newcastle in the Premier League.

United have picked up seven points from losing positions so far in the league, but their manager admits their luck will run out at some point - and hopes it does not happen in the Manchester derby.

He said: "If we keep conceding goals before the opponent, it will arrive the day where we cannot come back. So, we have to make sure we grow up not just in our approach - because I think that is clear that the team is growing up.

"But also we have to grow up in our compactness and to start matches well. Which, I have to say against Juventus, happened."

Pep Guardiola will be wary of United's resilience already, having witnessed his City team throw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to their neighbours at the Etihad in this fixture last season.

He said: "Last season we lost, but every game is a new history and a new chapter. We realise how strong United are. When they dominate and create chances they win easily, but you can have the feeling you are in control and they can still punish you.

"It's Manchester United - with Liverpool, they are one of the strongest teams in England's history.

I hope it can be a good derby and we can enjoy watching it."

Team news

Manchester City have no fresh injury concerns.

Captain Vincent Kompany and full-back Benjamin Mendy are back in contention after being left out for the midweek victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.

Playmaker Kevin De Bruyne (knee) and second-choice goalkeeper Claudio Bravo (Achilles) are City's only major absentees.

Manchester City vs Manchester United preview: Jose Mourinho concerned by slow starts
Kevin De Bruyne is unavailable for City due to injury

Romelu Lukaku could return to action for Manchester United.

The 25-year-old missed the trips to Bournemouth and Juventus with a hamstring complaint but will be assessed as the striker steps up training.

Diogo Dalot has been out with an injury sustained during the international break, while captain Antonio Valencia is back in contention having travelled to Turin.