The Shaw Redemption?…

In a twist more mind-bending than a Ronaldo free-kick, Manchester United has unveiled their secret weapon against Manchester City: the mighty Luke Shaw! After so many months hidden away like a rare footballing Pokémon, Shaw strutted into Old Trafford, boot bag in hand, like a knight with shining legs of steel (albeit covered in shin pads). It seems Ruben ‘The Wizard’ Amorim has kept Shaw under wraps, only to release him just in time to chase down the Sky Blues with the agility of a gazelle on the pitch. Will his return be the stuff of legends or simply a teaser trailer for what’s to come?

While Shaw puts on his boots, Matthijs de Ligt might be stuck playing with crutches instead of cleats, his ankle needing more TLC than a football munchkin with a temperamental leg. De Ligt’s absence has pushed young Godwill Kukonki into the limelight quicker than you can shout “Nutmeg!”. Also poised to join the gang of youthful Avengers is Harry Amass, primed to display his footie powers on the grand stage. It’s an Avengers Assemble moment, but on a Manchester scale, as they hope to out-glam and out-score their City rivals.

Meanwhile, amidst the autograph frenzy, Ruben Amorim turned into a signing autopen machine, scribbling with the enthusiasm of a young fan collecting Panini stickers. He greeted fans like a distinguished general rallying his troops before the big match. Among the army of Red Warriors ambushing Old Trafford are midfield maestros like Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, plus young guns blazing with fire names like Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho. Hold onto your boots and popcorn, folks — this Manchester derby is set to be more explosive than a locker room pratfall!