Derby

The first Manchester Derby of the season is just a few hours away, and the tension and excitement is bigger than ever as both sets of fans want the early bragging rights.

Manuel Pellegrini and his Manchester City players welcome the Red Devils’ to the ‘Etihad Stadium’ in the first game of Super Sunday, with both in need of victory if they are to catch early season leaders Chelsea.

Manchester City humiliated their rivals both home and away last season when David Moyes was in the hot seat at Old Trafford, but with Louis van Gaal at the helm this time round, things may be just that little bit different. The defending Premiership champions breezed past the Reds’ 4-1 in this fixture last season before a convincing 3-0 victory at ‘Old Trafford’ towards the end of last season. In need of revenge, United have not been victorious in a Manchester Derby since Robin van Persie’s late free-kick in December 2012 won them the match.

United are in high spirits at the moment after rescuing a well deserved point last week against Chelsea whilst their ‘noisy neighbours’ have had a run of poor games. Last weekend, they suffered a 2-1 defeat away to West Ham giving Chelsea the advantage of increasing their lead at the top of the table. In mid-week, the Blues’ were knocked out of the League Cup after a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Newcastle United. This was the trophy that City won last season and were aiming to defend the same one.

Manchester United boss, Louis van Gaal believes that by game, his squad are improving, he said: “We are growing, we are developing ourselves, I think, and what we have seen of Manchester City, the last matches were not so good.”

When asked about the Manchester Derby, he replied: “This is the biggest derby I have managed in. When Ryan Giggs presented me with the analysis [of City], I felt more tension with him. That was good to see.”

Manuel Pellegrini believes that United are just as strong as they were last season under David Moyes. He said: “I think Manchester United bought very important players this year, but I think also they are at the moment where you start with a new manager and new players, which is not easy.”

It is safe to say that both teams need a win because of the pressure Chelsea have caused by remaining unbeaten this season, despite travelling to Manchester twice this season.

Team News

City have been dealt a huge blow with the news that Silva will miss out on Sunday, and looks set to be out for around three weeks with a knee injury sustained aginst Newcastle. Fellow midfielder Yaya Toure is expected to feature despite being withdrawn during Wednesday’s loss amid concerns about a groin problem. Frank Lampard is still expected to be absent with a thigh injury but playmaker Samir Nasri appeared to make a successful return in midweek from groin surgery.

United boss Van Gaal will have to decide whether Wayne Rooney is worthy of a starting place after serving his suspension for his dismissal against West Ham. The United skipper could replace Juan Mata, who has not took advantage of Rooney’s absence from the past three matches. Radamel Falcao and Phil Jones will both be absent on Sunday, but Jonny Evans could make a return after recovering from a ankle injury.

Last Meeting

A brace from Edin Dzeko and a goal from Yaya Toure sent Manchester United crashing down that last time the two teams met. The blue half of Manchester had reasons to celebrate after a 3-0 victory over United at Old Trafford back in March. The Reds will be hoping for a different outcome as business in summer could help them prevail at the Etihad.

My Prediction

With the stability of United’s defence an unfortunate mess, it is likely that the Blues will punish especially with the mood that Sergio Aguero has been in lately. However with Rooney back from suspension for tomorrow, I expect United to get on the scoresheet too. Goals will be involved in this game but it depends on who can stand strong and punish the opposition. In my opinion I think that it’s time United started to win against the big teams and with the presence of Rooney, I feel they can sneak victory over their big rivals.

Score Prediction: Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United