The highly anticipated Manchester Derby is set to take place this weekend. This clash promises to be a critical fixture for both sides because the situation isn’t very good for either. While City has injury problems and can’t get things going in the right direction in terms of results, United faces inconsistency even under the ne new manager, Ruben Amorim. They’ve posted hot-and-cold results in recent times, which has been their trademark over the last several years.
Read on for our Manchester City vs Manchester United preview, including match odds, predictions, and key betting insights.
Who will be the next to rule these lands?
The Manchester derby arrives on Sunday ⚔️ @wbpictures pic.twitter.com/Q50fdsbqIe
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 13, 2024
Manchester City VS Manchester United Preview
Manchester City’s current form is a far cry from their usual dominance. They drew 2-2 with Crystal Palace last weekend, and after that, we saw them lose to Juventus on the road, 2-0, which is yet another slap in the face for Guardiola and the boys. Right now, the Old Lady is one mediocre team, and the Citizens couldn’t even beat them.
Over their last ten games, City has managed only one win, suffering seven losses and two draws. This slump marks their worst run under Pep Guardiola’s reign.
However, it’s important to note that City has been ravaged by injuries, with key players like Rodri out for the season. Kevin De Bruyne’s fitness struggles have also hindered the team’s attacking output, and that’s the reason why Haaland’s productivity isn’t at the usual level. If you’re betting on this match, keep an eye on how City copes without their star players, especially in midfield.
Manchester United’s recent form has been shady. After a solid run of seven unbeaten matches, the Red Devils have suffered back-to-back losses—first to Arsenal away and then to Nottingham Forest at home. These recent defeats have left fans questioning the team’s stability under their new manager. Even though we saw the team beating Plzen in the Europa League afterward, 1-2, coming back from behind, there are still plenty of doubts about this team.
United’s poor away form continues to be a major concern for bettors. With just two road wins in 2024, four losses, and five draws, things are not looking that bright for this club.
The team lacks a stable and consistent scorer because neither Zirkzee nor Hojlund can sustain a longer stretch of good performances. Marcus Rashford is way past his glory days, and we don’t even see him as a top-notch forward.
Manchester City VS Manchester United Head to Head
When it comes to Manchester Derby history, Manchester United leads with 79 wins in 194 official encounters, compared to Manchester City’s 61 victories. However, most of those triumphs came before 2010, when City wasn’t at this level of organization.
The two sides last met in the Charity Shield this August, with Manchester City emerging victorious after a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Manchester City VS Manchester United Prediction
This game isn’t only about three points. It’s about bragging rights and, more importantly, morale. The winners could receive a significant boost and gain momentum before the most intense part of the year. Also, there is a matter of getting even between Guardiola and Amorim. When City met Sporting in the UCL recently, they lost 4-1. Surely, Pep didn’t forget that and wants to settle things.
If you’re betting on this match, consider backing Manchester City to win, especially given the home-field edge and Manchester United’s struggles away from Old Trafford. We know that United’s form looks slightly better, but they, too, aren’t showing anything special.
