City vs. United: Premier League derby showdown

The Sky Blues, trailing league leaders Liverpool by just one point and ahead of Arsenal by the same margin, look to claim victory in this critical match.

City, hosting the derby, enters the game with a strong track record, having defeated United in four of their last five encounters. Their dominance was on full display during their 3-0 victory at Old Trafford in the season's first match in October 2023.

Manchester United, however, faces challenges this season, with 10 defeats in the Premier League, a figure only exceeded twice in the league's history. The team's readiness for the derby is further compromised by injuries, with Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, and Lisandro Martinez sidelined, and Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, Harry Maguire, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka's participation in doubt.

Despite these setbacks, United has shown signs of recovery, winning their last four Premier League matches and currently sitting in sixth place with 44 points.

Reigning champions Manchester City appear more fortunate on the injury front, with only Jack Grealish and Josko Gvardiol's availability for the game in question.