Team News
Manchester United
- Louis van Gaal could turn to Michael Carrick to partner Morgan Schneiderlin at the base of his midfield having not started a game since United lost to Arsenal 3-0 before the international break.
- Juan Mata is likely to come back into the starting XI having been rested for the first time this season away to CSKA on Wednesday.
- Changes are also expected in defence with Matteo Darmian and Marcos Rojo likely to start again.
Manchester City
- Manchester City will still be without Sergio Aguero, Fabian Delph and Gael Clichy for the first Manchester derby of the season, but they will have Aleksandar Kolarov available after he returned to training midweek and David Silva could also make a surprise return, although he remains a huge doubt for the trip to Old Trafford.
- Vincent Kompany should return to the starting fold having been benched for recent matches as he returns to full fitness.
Prediction
- Despite it only being October, there is a lot riding on the outcome of the first Manchester Derby of the season. Defeat for the home side would cast serious questions over their progression under Louis van Gaal and extend the gap between them and City to five points. United are also looking to bounce back from their turgid 1-1 draw away to CSKA Moscow on Wednesday.
- The loss of Sergio Aguero is a massive blow for City and while Wilfried Bony scored two goals at the weekend he is no Aguero. However, the expected return of captain Vincent Kompany to the starting XI should balance out the absence of Aguero.
- There have been 23 goals in the last six league meetings between the sides, including the 4-2 win in this corresponding fixture last season, so goals can be expected once again on Sunday.
Prediction:
Manchester United
2
1
Manchester City
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