Man City vs Man Utd Preview, Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Manchester City welcome bitter rivals Manchester United to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon for a game that could prove to be vital in where the title ends up at the end of the season.

United head into the game holding a three-point lead over City and should the Red Devils claim victory on Sunday, they will move six points clear as we edge towards the half-way point in the season.

However, City have the bragging rights after claiming wins in both Premier League meetings last season, including a stunning 6-1 victory at Old Trafford, before winning the title in dramatic fashion in the final seconds of the final day of the season.

Roberto Mancini’s side have made a steady start to the season and remain unbeaten after 15 games and haven’t lost at home for two years, but they crashed out the Champions League on Tuesday and won’t even have the consolation of Europa League football after finishing bottom of their group.

United were beaten by Cluj 1-0 at Old Trafford on Wednesday but fielded a weakened side as they had already secured qualification to the knockout stages and Sir Alex Ferguson was able to rest several key names.

Team News

Mancini is sweating on the fitness of David Silva who is struggling with a hamstring injury. The Spaniard will be given a late fitness test before the game but the Italian is hopeful the winger will be able to feature.

Aleksandar Kolarov is definitely out with a groin complaint and Micah Richards is sidelined with a knee injury but Gael Clichy is likely to play after recovering from an ankle problem. Jack Rodwell and James Milner both remain out with hamstring strains.

United will be without Tom Cleverley after the midfielder was forced off in midweek with a calf injury. Antonio Valencia, Nani and Shinji Kagawa are also ruled out, and Fergie claims the game will also come too soon for captain Nemanja Vidic who continues to recover from his knee surgery.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted Score

With City’s near imperious home form, it’s going to be a tall order for United to take away all three points on Sunday. With United already holding the advantage in the title-race, we can see Ferguson keeping it tight and the Scot would be happy as long as his side don’t lose, and we can see him getting his wish. Man City 1-1 Man Utd

What would your team be and what’s your predicted score for the game? Get involved in the comments section.