Of all the debates we have in the Transfer Tavern, discussions about combined XI’s are usually the ones that get out of hand quickly.
These intensify as we approach a crucial Premier League match but rival supporters are always ready to go at each other’s throats, which has been the chase today as fans of Manchester City and Manchester United have clashed.
Our landlord had to take time out of his busy day to intervene and demanded the two sets of supporters settle their differences or face being barred.
Unfortunately for the bar staff, we were also dragged into the debate as we were made to chaperone the discussions- attempting to put an end to the arguments as to who would feature in a combined XI from the Manchester clubs.
It was easy, and at some stages we thought it would turn into a scene from Green Street, but in the end we all came to a decision.
Hit below to see the combined XI of Manchester United and Manchester City- let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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David De Gea
Joe Hart is England’s number one and is a Manchester City icon but we couldn’t really look past David De Gea, a goalkeeper who has shone in recent years within a mediocre Manchester United side and has the capability to become the best in the world.
It’s fair to say that Hart may have reached the peak of his potential, with some suggesting he’s now going backwards, but the scary thing with De Gea is that he will continue to get even better.
Matteo Darmian
This was a tricky spot to decide upon, perhaps the most difficult in the team, and not because both sides are full of stars. Instead, City find themselves with ageing options on the right-back whilst United’s right-side is largely inexperienced.
In the end we went with United’s summer acquisition of Matteo Darmian, an Italian full-back who has impressed us at the bar this season following his arrival and we’re extremely excited to see how he continues to develop in the future.
Vincent Kompany
The first name on the team-sheet, even United fans couldn’t argue against this one as Vincent Company has broken their hearts on many derby days.
For many Kompany is the finest defender in the Premier League and when the Belgian is at his best it’s difficult to argue with that. Amid the millions of pounds spent by City, and the stars that flood their team, Kompany is a player that made his name at the Etihad and is one of their bargains.
Nicolas Otamendi
Had summer turned out differently then Argentine Nicolas Otamendi could’ve been playing for the other half of Manchester, lining up in this combined XI as a Red Devil.
However, City won the race for his signature and the former Valencia star has quickly made an impression. He could be the purchase that pushes City towards the Premier League title, as his figure in the centre of defence has erased the worries that were present whenever Kompany was absent.
Luke Shaw
Currently injured for the long-term, and rated 50/50 for the European Championships, Luke Shaw faces a tough test to get back to his brilliant best at the end of his recovery. However, we’re firmly backing the young defender to come back with a bang.
Shaw is one of England’s most exciting young players and has already made an impression for club and country at a young age, with United finding it difficult to replace the former Southampton man in their defence with his current injury absence.
Memphis Depay
Before we begin, we’d like to eliminate one argument by stating Jesus Navas came very, very close to making the cut. However, eventually a decision was reached to select Memphis Depay.
The £25m arrival in the summer started his United career in blistering fashion but has seen that form curtail off in the past month, having not made a Premier League appearance since the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal and seemingly losing his first-team spot to Jesse Lingard.
However, Depay is an incredible prospect and was recently dubbed by Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the best young players in the world. We find it difficult to argue with that.
Kevin De Bruyne
The second name in the team after City captain Vincent Kompany, Kevin De Bruyne has set Manchester alight with his sensational performances since arriving from Wolfsburg. From what we’ve seen so far, this is Jose Mourinho’s greatest mistake.
De Bruyne had a lot to live-up to after struggling in the Premier League with Chelsea and returning to England with a monumental price-tag but he’s quickly erased any fears, putting in the same performances that tore the Bundesliga apart last term.
David Silva
Like Jesus Navas on the right, Juan Mata almost earned a spot in centre-midfield but unfortunately for the Spaniard there was no way we could leave out his compatriot David Silva- a vital cog in the Manchester City midfield.
Not always getting the plaudits he deserves, Silva has been a crucial part of City’s side in the past few years and will continue to be important for the club as they chase Premier League and European success. He’s arguably the best in the league in this position.
Raheem Sterling
On the left-side Raheem Sterling was always going to make the cut as he has a number of fans here in the Transfer Tavern, though the Liverpool fans will continue to claim his over-rated and not as good as Jordan Ibe will be. Settle down lads!
Sterling faced a difficult task living up to his £49m price-tag but whilst the country argued whether he was worth that fee, the England international quietly got on with his job; putting in tremendous performances and significantly improving his form in front of goal.
Sergio Aguero
Sergio Aguero would get into any side in world football, without a doubt. For us he’s the best striker currently on offer across the globe and it’s an absolute privilege to see him regularly in the Premier League- though it’s a shame he has the injury problems he does.
The Argentine has set the Premier League alight since his arrival from Atletico Madrid and is responsible for the most memorable moment in the competition’s proud history. Repeat after me: Aguerooooooooo!
Anthony Martial
First note: It’s not Wayne Rooney, it was never going to be Wayne Rooney and you have no argument to suggest it should be Wayne Rooney.
Secondly, Anthony Martial is extremely deserving of his position. For us Manchester United are a little bit short of winning the Premier League but if they are to prove us wrong then this man will be integral to their title push.
Let’s be honest, no-one expected the teenager to perform as he has immediately after becoming the world’s most expensive teenager following his arrival from Monaco but he’s already proved those doubters wrong. It’s amazing what a debut goal against Liverpool can lead you to.
