We could have defeated them easily yesterday but that guy was everywhere…I have never played against an opponent like him”: Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola names ONE Man United’s player who shocked him with a terrific performance yesterday. CAN’T BELIEVE THAT GUY WILL BE LEAVING NEXT SEASON

“We Could’ve Won, But He Was Everywhere”—Pep Guardiola Names Unexpected Manchester United Star Who Impressed in Stalemate at Old Trafford

Sunday’s Manchester derby ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Old Trafford, with Manchester United and Manchester City cancelling each other out in a match full of intensity but lacking clear-cut goalscoring action.

United had a golden opportunity to secure a league double over City for the first time in half a decade, but they couldn’t break through City’s defense. The best chance of the game came in the 77th minute when Joshua Zirkzee rose to meet a cross with a sharp header that forced an excellent save from Ederson.

While Bruno Fernandes was lauded as United’s top performer, another name caught Pep Guardiola’s attention—Casemiro. The experienced midfielder delivered a powerhouse display that even Guardiola admitted was difficult to play against.

After initially being benched under new boss Ruben Amorim, Casemiro has clawed his way back into the starting lineup. With Manuel Ugarte sidelined through injury before the international break, the Brazilian veteran has grabbed his chance, becoming a key figure in United’s midfield setup.

His recent form has been nothing short of commanding. In the derby, Casemiro won 13 duels, made seven tackles, completed 60 touches, and added three ball recoveries along with two interceptions. At 33, he showed that he still has what it takes to dominate high-stakes matches.

Amorim praised Casemiro after the game, noting that his recent resurgence has earned him a well-deserved starting role. Based on performances like this, he’s quickly becoming one of the first names on the team sheet.

With a crucial Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon coming up, Amorim is expected to stick with much of the same XI. One potential change could see Zirkzee replace Højlund up front, after the former impressed with his brief cameo against City.

United are among the favorites to lift the Europa League trophy this season, which would not only bring silverware back to Old Trafford but also secure direct entry into next season’s Champions League group stage.

A strong result in Lyon would be a huge step toward that goal. With Casemiro marshalling the midfield and Zirkzee knocking on the door for a starting spot, all eyes will be on how Amorim sets up his side.

Should the manager keep faith with Casemiro and Zirkzee for Thursday, or shake th

ings up tactically?