This midweek comes to an explosive end with the battle of Manchester. United head to their cross city rivals looking to keep touch with the Champions League battle.
With 10 games within the space of just over a month, the Red Devils better hope that their Citizens are kind enough to gift them victory here.
Team News
David Silva is unlikely to feature for Manchester City after picking up an injury during Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal in their FA Cup semi.
Sergio Aguero has however been declared fit alongside Gabriel Jesus.
Jose Mourinho has Andre Herrera and Antonio Valencia back after missing the last couple of games.
Paul Pogba joins Phil Jones and Chris Smalling on the sidelines after picking up a muscle injury.
Pep vs Jose
The top four battle might be important but the main story is the renewal of Guardiola’s rivalry with Mourinho.
These two giants have collided on 18 occasions at various clubs with the Catalonian gaining the upper hand with eight wins to Mourinho’s three. There has been six draws between them.
The fact that they are now neighbours will lighten an atmosphere that has been tense in the past, especially during El Classico.
Top four at stake
Whilst this might not be a clash for the title, victory is still vital if either are to secure a Champions League place next season.
Pep Guardiola is already going to finish without a trophy for the first time in his management career, but a Europa League spot would be disastrous.
Mourinho however can afford to miss out on a Champions League spot, should United win the Europa League.
United have reason to worry here because the Special One hasn’t beaten City in his last four league games against them.
Will the above factors play a part in how both sides approach this derby.
Prediction
This match is difficult to call because City have suffered just one home defeat since losing this fixture last season.
United are on an unbeaten run of 23 league games so will be keen to take the points here. This makes the match all the more tasty and unpredictable.
One factor that might decide who gets the bragging rights here is that Man City needed extra time on Sunday.
If they haven’t fully recovered then United will pounce in the latter stages and sweep them aside.
It might be easy to predict a draw here but Man U will just have that bit extra in the latter stages.
Prediction: Manchester City 1-2 Manchester United
Result: Manchester City 0-0 Manchester United
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