Manchester City playing at home has a fixed odds of 1.89 for winning the game, 3.67 for the game to end in a draw and 4.12 for the away team to win. For me, the odds look great for the home side to steal all 3 points. However when you play against the Red Devils, it will never be easy and the home side will definitely need to play their A game!
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Manchester City's top goal scorer Sergio Agüero has 9 goals to his name and he was influential for his team when he tore Spurs apart with his goals. Having Agüero back fit and in a mood to score will definitely increase their chances of winning the derby. No doubt about his talent but he himself alone will not be able to tear down the Red Devils. He will need his team to come up with their best game for sure.
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Another key player for Manchester City is Pablo Zabaleta. I believe most would mention that Yaya Touré or Vincent Kompany would be the key person for the team but Zabaleta's runs all over the pitch really needs recognition. I always feel more confident with the City team when Zabaleta is playing. Up till today, Zabaleta has 2 assist to his name and countless key passes for his teammates. If Zabaleta is having a bad day on the pitch then maybe United might have a chance to sneak in some goals.
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Ángel Di María has definitely made a name for himself at Manchester United with his great start to the season. Till now, he has 3 goals and 4 assists from 7 games. I would say that is a fabulous result for a new comer to the English Premier League. Through the early days when Manchester United was struggling, Di María was the key factor that the Red Devils managed those wins. I would say the Manchester City midfielders will have to keep Di María quiet on the field to reduce the chances of United scoring.
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Many would not have put Rafael as a key player for Manchester United. I have watched the Red Devils playing a bit this season and I would say that Rafael's contribution for his team is outstanding. His tireless runs around the pitch and his darting runs down the right flanks really bring out the attacking part for the Red Devils. Although he only has 1 assist to his name but I believe his overall contribution to the team needs mentioning and recognition.
As for injured players, David Silva is the latest injured player for Manchester City. Together with Frank Lampard and Yaya Toure, they will be out of the derby game. Silva has been influential in the attacking build up for City and his loss will definitely be felt. As for Manchester United, there is a long list of injured players but it seems that Wayne Rooney might be back in contention for this derby although there's report that he picked up a knock in training. Phil Jones, Jonathan Evans and Antonio Valencia could all be back from injury which is a boost for the Red Devils team.
The recent results for the Manchester derby favors Manchester City. I am predicting that with home ground advantage, a fit and in form Sergio Agüero is all that it takes to differentiate these teams. If Manchester United is unable to keep Agüero quiet, it will be an easy game for City. I'm predicting for a 2-1 victory for the home side!
