Manchester United vs Manchester City tips and predictions: Rivals lock horns in Old Trafford showdown

Manchester United state of play

Another game - and another midweek humbling for Manchester United. Ruben Amorim’s side slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday. 

Forest have been exemplary this season, but it was an insipid and toothless performance by the Red Devils. In all competitions this season, only Leicester (25) have conceded the opening goal in more matches among all Premier League sides than United (23). 

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Speaking ahead of the City showdown, Amorim said: "If you look at the game we are improving the way we play football, we are creating chances and dominating the games more." 

The ex-Sporting boss is keeping positive in the face of adversity. However, it remains to be seen if United fans feel the same. 

Manchester City state of play 

It appears to be the FA Cup or bust for City this season. Nevertheless, the importance of the Manchester derby for local bragging rights can't be understated. 

City were clinical against Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarter-final last weekend and they breezed past struggling Leicester on Wednesday night with a routine 2-0 win. 

However, in March they could only manage a 2-2 draw with Brighton and slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Forest at the City ground. 

Guardiola's biggest headache at the moment is Erling Haaland's absence. The prolific Norwegian is going to be sidelined for at least five weeks. 

Key talking point: Can Manchester United turn it on when it counts? 

It's tough times at United, both on and off the field. Amorim is struggling to get a tune out of his squad and protests are expected on Sunday as frustration at Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s boardroom decision-making grows. 

United fans’ group 1958 are organising a protest at ticket prices, with fans urged to stage a ‘sit-in’ by remaining in their seats following the full-time whistle.

But despite this, United still have pockets of talent and derby clashes can throw up some surprising results. 

Read: Premier League matchweek 31 betting tips

Alejandro Garnacho was frustrating and predictable against Forest, but the young attacker can flick the switch in big games. Patrick Dorgu similarly underwhelmed in midweek although has much more to offer. 

The current United squad is lacking in confidence but the effort can't be disputed. City still need to be wary and must not let complacency creep in. 

FIRST’s top tip for Manchester United vs Manchester City 

Harry Maguire anytime goal scorer at 10/1 (BetMGM)

Harry Maguire was used as a makeshift centre forward in the dying minutes of the Forest match. 

The veteran centre back actually did pretty well. He had more shots in nine minutes than attacking duo Joshua Zirkze and Rasmus Hojlund had in the whole fixture.

Maguire, 32, also recorded more expected goals at the City Ground than Rasmus Hojlund has managed to find in any of his past 15 appearances for United. 

His figure of 0.6 has only been beaten twice by Hojlund in the Premier League all season. 

Extra tips

Omar Marmoush first goal scorer at 7/2 (Bet442)

Guardiola needs his other attackers to step up after Haaland suffered a serious ankle injury. Luckily, the ex-Eintracht Frankfurt ace is already delivering. 

Marmoush was on the score sheet against Leicester in midweek and performed solidly again. His Premier League tally is now five goals in just eight games after joining the club in January. 

Manuel Ugarte yellow card at 7/4 (BetMGM)

Manuel Ugarte has more yellow cards than any Manchester United player this season with eight to his name. The midfield enforcer could add to that tally this season in a fierce derby atmosphere. 

Team news

Haaland limped out of City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth on Sunday and could be sidelined for the rest of the season. 

City remain without defenders Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji at the back. John Stones’ return is also still unclear. 

United, meanwhile, have Mason Mount available. The former Chelsea midfielder came off the bench in the 1-0 defeat to Forest. 

Kobbie Mainoo is in contention to feature against City, but Ayden Heaven and Luke Shaw are both working their way back to full fitness. 

Manchester United vs Manchester City predicted line-ups

Manchester United: Onana; De Ligt, Maguire, Yoro; Dalot, Fernandes, Ugarte, Dorgu; Zirkzee, Mount; Hojlund (3-4-2-1)

Manchester City: Ederson; Nunes, Gvardiol, Dias, O'Reilly; Gundogan, Gonzalez; Foden, De Bruyne, Grealish; Marmoush (4-2-3-1)

Form guide (all competitions)

Manchester United: WLDWLDDWWL

Manchester City: LWLLWWLDWW

Odds correct at the time of writing.