The Premier League returns after the first international break of the season with a blockbuster fixture: the Manchester derby.
Manchester City and Manchester United face off this Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, and the eyes of the footballing world will be watching.
Read on for our preview of this exciting clash, along with some betting Belgium tips and football bet odds to guide your weekend bets. You can also boost your winnings by up to 50% with our Combo+ offer, available on accumulator bets.
Manchester City vs Manchester United – Match Preview
Much like last season, the Citizens have had a tough(ish) start to life in the Premier League, suffering back-to-back league defeats against Tottenham and Brighton after a 4-0 win over Wolves on Matchday 1.
At the Etihad, Pep Guardiola’s men still go into this clash as favourites against the Red Devils, despite missing the likes of Savinho, Mateo Kovacic, Rayan Cherki, and Josko Gvardiol due to injury.
As for Ruben Amorim’s men, they only just managed to overcome Burnley (3-2) before the international break, following a 1-1 draw at Fulham.
The Portuguese coach’s system has yet to click. While some patterns of play were visible in the opening match against Arsenal, which they lost 1-0, skipper Bruno Fernandes and his teammates will need to raise their game considerably against City.
Both Manchester clubs have shown defensive weaknesses at the start of the season, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair.
Manchester City vs Manchester United – Latest Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Manchester City win: 1.70
Draw: 4.35
Manchester United win: 4.75
Manchester City vs Manchester United – Our Predictions
Over 2.5 goals @ 1.58
Both teams have looked shaky at the back since the campaign began. City have already conceded 4 goals, while United continue to struggle for defensive stability, also shipping 4 goals. With both sides boasting attacking firepower, this derby looks set to deliver goals. Backing over 2.5 goals in the match seems like a safe bet to us.
Erling Haaland to score anytime @ 1.83
The Norwegian striker remains City’s deadliest weapon – and he’s in red-hot form. Haaland bagged 5 goals and 2 assists in Norway’s stunning 11-1 win over Moldova, adding to his 3 Premier League strikes for the season. The opposition this Sunday will be far tougher than Moldova, of course, but the “cyborg” looks ready to strike again.
Bruno Fernandes to score anytime @ 4.50
The Red Devils’ captain is without doubt the team’s standout player, and often rises to the occasion in big games such as this. A set-piece specialist with a knack for long-range strikes, Fernandes will pose a constant threat to City’s backline. His high odds at 4.50 make him an attractive value pick, especially as he will be on penalty duty. Fernandes scored from 12 yards in United’s 2-1 win at the Etihad last season.
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