It is for the first time since 1986 that both Manchester clubs have new managers heading into the Manchester derby. Expect the focus to be on Manuel Pellegrini and David Moyes, rather than any player.
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany made his return from injury in midweek, but Gael Clichy could miss out, alongside another defender, Martin Demichelis. David Silva is expected to make a return after missing the club’s previous two matches.
On the other hand, Manchester United have no major injury concerns apart from Scotland captain Darren Fletcher, who is not expected to return any time soon.
Let’s have a look at what the stats have to offer for Manchester City vs Manchester United
- Since a drab 0-0 in November 2010, the past eight meetings between these teams have produced 30 goals – an average of 4.3 per game.
- Last season, Manchester City and Manchester United beat each other away from home in the Premier League. United won 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium in December, while City won 2-1 at Old Trafford in April.
- Manchester City are undefeated in 36 of their last 38 home matches in the Premier League.
- Manchester City have scored at least two goals in five of their last six matches against Manchester United in all competitions.
- No Premier League player has completed more passes than Yaya Toure (347) in 2013-14.
- Wayne Rooney has now either scored or assisted 40 goals in his last 44 Premier League games.
- Against Crystal Palace, debutant Marouane Fellaini (46) made more passes than Anderson (39), despite only replacing him after the hour mark.
- Since his Premier League debut in August 2006, Ashley Young has won a joint highest 12 penalties in the league. His former Villa colleague Gabriel Agbonlahor has also won 12.