Man City vs Man United tips and predictions: Expect Etihad entertainment amid Keeper dilemmas

Manchester City state of play

It's been a bitterly disappointing start for Pep Guardiola's gang. 

A serious bid to regain the title was anticipated, but their challenge has been wounded by defeats to Tottenham and Brighton before the international break. 

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In fact, a return of three points from three games represents the club's worst start to a top-flight campaign since 2004/05. 

The 4-0 hammering of Wolves on the opening day feels like a long time ago and Guardiola will be eager to get his team back on track.

Manchester United state of play

Manchester United recovered from their Carabao Cup humiliation by beating Burnley to grab their first win of the league season before the international break. 

It was far from straightforward, however, as the scores were level before Bruno Fernandes fired home a 97th-minute penalty less than a week after missing from the spot against Fulham. 

The victory eased some of the pressure on Ruben Amorim and moved the Red Devils into the top half on four points.

A repeat of last season's dramatic Etihad win would provide some evidence that United are progressing. 

Key talking point: A tricky start for the new goalies?

The dying embers of the transfer window saw both clubs sign a new goalkeeper - the blue half of Manchester welcoming Gianluigi Donnarumma and the red half capturing Senne Lammens.

The former is one of the greatest in the game and the latter is inexperienced with just one full season as Royal Antwerp first choice under his belt. 

Despite Guardiola occasionally making rogue selections, you'd imagine Donnarumma will take James Trafford's place.

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That's unlikely to solve City's vulnerabilities at the back, however, as they have given up 15 shots on target this term. 

Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir's struggles means 23-year-old Lammens faces intense scrutiny and a derby might not be the best place for a youngster to make his debut. 

Whoever's between the sticks could be in for a challenging afternoon if the hosts rediscover their mojo. 

FIRST’s top tip for Manchester City vs Manchester United

Pick: Both teams to score & over 2.5 goals - 10/11 (Betway)

There have been nine goals in City's games and eight in United's, but both are underperforming against their xG. 

The selection landed in the last six meetings between the teams in all competitions at the Etihad. 

Extra tips

Pick: Manchester City goalkeeper to make over 2.5 saves - 17/20 (BetMGM)

A leaky City defence means Trafford made 11 saves in three appearances and they face a United side averaging more than four shots on target. Whether it’s new signing Donnarumma or Trafford - expect a busy day. 

Pick: Erling Haaland over 1.5 shots on target - 7/10 (Betway)

He's had 14 shots in three games, with five hitting the target, and is in fine form after bagging five goals for Norway in midweek. 

Team news

Omar Marmoush misses out for the hosts after suffering a knee injury on international duty. 

Rayan Cherki and Mateo Kovacic remain sidelined, while Phil Foden, Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rico Lewis, Nico O’Reilly, Savinho and John Stones are doubts.  

Matheus Cunha hopes to be available for the visitors after limping out of the Burnley win. While it’s expected new goalkeeper Senne Lammens makes his debut in the sticks.

Mason Mount is doubtful after also suffering an injury against the Clarets, Diogo Dalot will undergo a late fitness test and Lisandro Martinez remains unavailable.  

Manchester City vs Manchester United predicted line-ups

Manchester City: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Stones, Lewis; Rodri, Silva, Reijnders; Bobb, Doku, Haaland (4-3-3)

Manchester United: Lammens; Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw; Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo, Cunha; Sesko (3-4-2-1)

Form guide (including friendlies)

Manchester City: WWWWWLWWLL

Manchester United: WDWWDDLDDW

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Odds correct at the time of writing.