It promises to be an exciting derby as Manchester City is set to host Manchester United at Etihad this Sunday in the Premier League. The hosts will be looking to secure a maximum of three points against an inconsistent United side battling with injuries. City will be seeking to chase league leaders Liverpool in contention for the league as well as United looking to secure a champion’s league spot.
Manchester City vs Manchester United: Preview
Manchester City will be aiming to close the gap on league leader Liverpool with a Win while seeking another successive premier league Title. Their current form has seen them win 8 matches in 10 league games and are currently second on the table. After an impeccable 6:2 FA Cup win on Tuesday over Luton with Halland and De-Bruyne firing from all cylinders, they look to replicate the same this weekend at the Manchester Derby.
On the other hand, United against all odds will have to prove themselves at the Etihad. Their injury list is compiling which is affecting their form and hope to secure a top-four finish this season. Despite their style of play being unconvincing, they’ve been managing to sneak out wins but unable to keep the momentum. After an impressive unbeaten record this year, they lost it to a Fulham side at home when they desperately needed a win. Their inconsistencies and style of play are causing fans to worry as they expect drastic change due to new ownership on board. They are currently 6th on the premier league standings with 8 points adrift from the top four.
Probable XI
Manchester City
Ederson; Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji; Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva; Alvarez, Erling Haaland, Foden.
Coach: Pep Guardiola
Manchester United
Onana; Dalot, Varane, Lindelof, Amrabat; Casemiro, Fernandes, Maino; Garnacho, Antony and Marcus Rashford.
Injured: Maguire, Hojlund, Shaw, Martinez, Mount, Wan-Bissaka, Malacia, Martial
Coach: Erik Ten Hag.
Game Prediction
Manchester City considering their recent run would desperately need a win against United to close on league leader’s Liverpool. It’s expected of City to be in total control and dominant throughout the match. United will be forced to sit back on defense and plunge on the counter. Considering the injury blows and inability to progress play from the back, United’s defense will have to contend with City’s constant Threat at goal.
Players to look out for in this derby include Erling Halland and De Bryune as they’ve proved difficult to contend with. Other key players from the United side include Rashford and Fernandes, they’ll solely be dependent on their flair, pace, and creativity.
Head-to-Head
Played: 191; Manchester United: 78, Manchester City: 60, Draws: 53
Previous 5 Meetings
City over the last 5 meetings have triumphed in Manchester Derbies over United, winning four matches and losing one to United. The scoreline between the two sides has seen a minimum of three goals and above, which is said to be a goal feast whenever they clash.
Betting Odds
| Manchester City win | 1.25 |
| Draw | 5.75 |
| Manchester United win | 11.00 |
*Odds from bet365*
Betting Tips
Manchester City win = 3:1
Both teams to score (BTS) = Yes
Over 2.5 goals = Yes
Time: 3.30 pm GMT
Date: Sunday, March 3, 2024
Stadium: Etihad
For more great content, check us out on X @TotalApexSports. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we do several shows daily. Make sure you follow us on NewsBreak as well.
