The first Manchester derby of the campaign is set to take place at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Michael Carrick’s Manchester United side preparing to face Enzo Maresca’s high-flying Manchester City.
City have made an impressive start to their season, securing victories over Coventry City, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth in Premier League action, before overcoming Porto in Champions League competition to record four consecutive wins.
United’s campaign has been less consistent, with a defeat against Hull City and a late draw with Everton bookending a win over Ipswich Town.
However, Carrick’s team secured a 4-0 victory against Sabah in the Champions League in midweek, providing positive momentum heading into the derby.
Six football experts have offered their predictions ahead of the encounter.
Former United captain Gary Neville expressed confidence in his old club during The Overlap’s Big Game Preview.
Neville believes the Old Trafford atmosphere could prove decisive, suggesting the passionate home support would create a hostile environment.
He anticipated a 2-1 victory for United, noting that Maresca’s squad contains several players experiencing this particular fixture for the first time.
Neville suggested there would be a period of around 10 minutes where the intensity would become overwhelming for the visitors.
Chris Sutton acknowledged his uncertainty in his BBC Sport column.
The former Blackburn Rovers forward felt a draw would be a reasonable outcome given the current form of both clubs.
He noted that City play in a more methodical manner under Maresca, with an emphasis on building from the back rather than playing expansively.
An ex-defender contributing to Sky Sports’ Super 6 predictions foresaw a 3-1 success for Maresca’s side.
Speaking exclusively to BestBettingSites, Rene Muelensteen backed United to raise their performance.
The former United midfielder suggested the timing suited his old club, pointing to the positive impression United created when Carrick first took charge against City at home.
He argued that while City have started well under their new coach, they are still adapting to a different approach from the Guardiola era.
Muelensteen believed this represented an ideal opportunity for United to deliver a commanding display.
A Newcastle legend told Betfair that United traditionally elevate their game when facingCity, particularly at Old Trafford.
While acknowledging City as the stronger overall side, the former striker expected United to produce a strong performance and foresaw a score draw.
Peter Crouch suggested United could cause City problems, but backed the visitors to prevail in the end.
The former Stoke City striker indicated the match could serve as a turning point for Maresca’s team.