The Manchester Derby takes center stage this Sunday at the Etihad. City are aiming to bounce back after patchy league form, while United arrive under pressure, struggling for stability in results and performances.

City under Pep Guardiola remain formidable going forward. A 4-0 demolition of Wolves underlined their attacking power, led by Erling Haaland who has six goals in eight derbies and just scored five for Norway. Yet their squad is stretched—Gvardiol, Lewis, Cherki, Savinho, and Kovacic are doubts, while Khusanov and O’Reilly also face fitness concerns. Even with these issues, City’s depth ensures control and attacking threat.

United under Rúben Amorim are unsettled. A draw with Fulham, a loss to Arsenal, and a scrappy 3-2 win over Burnley show inconsistency, compounded by an embarrassing early cup exit to Grimsby Town. Bruno Fernandes is their heartbeat, driving creativity and control, but the departure of André Onana on loan has left them stretched in goal. Injuries to Lisandro Martínez, Mason Mount, and Matheus Cunha further weaken their options, limiting both defensive solidity and attacking fluency.

City’s home advantage and attacking depth make them clear favorites. United will rely on Fernandes and counterattacks, but unless they tighten up defensively, City should have the upper hand.

Team picks

Manchester City to win

Over 1.5 goals

Both teams to score – no