Man Utd have performed far above expectations in recent weeks, winning five from six and claiming 15 points from a possible 18. Louis van Gaal has answered the doubters with exclamation wins over Tottenham (3-0) and Liverpool (2-1).
The 3-1 win versus Aston Villa combined with Liverpool’s 4-1 defeat at Arsenal last weekend has created an eight-point gap between the bitter rivals. At present, it looks as if Man Utd are the prime candidates for securing the fourth Champions League spot.
Man City were simply fantastic over the winter period, but have since crumbled to fall far behind Chelsea in the title race. The Citizens will be doing well just to hold on to second place, which is an apparent requirement for manager Manuel Pellegrini to keep his job for next season.
There are two concerning blemishes on Man City’s recent record. The good work of four wins has been undone by losses against Liverpool and Burnley in their past six games. City could have been much closer to Chelsea if they had won at least one of those games.
Expectations
Man Utd have stepped up their game, while Man City have been far from their best. Outside of David Silva, their stars have not been delivering. The likes of Yaya Touré and Sergio Agüero must do better if City are to finish the season well.
The last Manchester derby came in November, when Man City overcame a ten-man Man Utd team 1-0. Man Utd actually played pretty well, but this time they could be even better. For the first time in months, Man Utd have been highly creative.
The current midfield of choice includes Michael Carrick, Ander Herrera, and Marouane Fellaini. Man Utd are balanced, aggressive, and creative with the current partnership. The Reds have what it takes to give Man City yet another weekend of disappointment this season.
Match Tips
Tip one: Man Utd draw no bet @ 1.80 with ladbrokes
Tip two: Over 2.5 goals @ 1.90 with ladbrokes
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This is the time of the season for action. Both teams know that they have to win. Man Utd are worth backing for draw no bet, as they have the confidence to potentially win against a Man City team that appears lethargic.
