OLD TRAFFORD stages the 191st Manchester derby between United and City in an intriguing contest.
Both sides were in midweek Champions League action and both grabbed wins in contrasting styles.
United were again disappointing, but got the job done against FC Copenhagen thanks to a Harry Maguire goal and a penalty save from much-maligned keeper Andre Onana.
It was an emotional night at Old Trafford after the passing of club icon Sir Bobby Charlton and they at least got the win.
City proved to be too strong for Young Boys on an artificial surface in Switzerland and eased to a 3-1 win thanks to a double from Erling Haaland.
Domestically, both sides will be disappointed, but for different reasons.
United have climbed to eighth place in the table after a couple of wins, but they are a long way from convincing.
And City have showed glimpses of vulnerability this season after defeats to Wolves and at Arsenal and they weren't at their best when they edged past Brighton at home either. They are currently two points behind leaders Spurs.
How the bookies view it
Not so long ago it would been unthinkable that Manchester United could be backed at 9/2 for a home derby, but that's where we are and bet365 are offering that.
Manchester City are odds-on across the board and the 4/6 with Coral is the current best price. They have been getting steadily backed all week. The draw is 3/1 with William Hill
Recent head to heads
Last season, City walloped United 6-3 at the Etihad, but United gained a measure of revenge at Old Trafford with a win. City also triumphed in the FA Cup Final on their way to that treble.
Players to watch
Scott McTominay has come up with huge goals for club and country time and time again and none more so than his injury time double the other week to turn defeat into victory against Brentford. He could tempt punters at 11/1 to score anytime with bet365.
Erling Haaland perhaps hasn't quite hit the heights of last season where he hit a hat-trick against United in his first Manchester derby. But bet365 have dangled a carrot in front of punters by making the Norwegian 4/5 to score anytime here.
Anything else catch the eye?
Manchester City look just too strong for United all over the pitch and they should have enough here to get another derby win.
United have improved in terms of results, but are surely miles away from where they want to be performance-wise. And it wouldn't be a huge surprise if City overran them, as they can do to any side when in the mood.
They have the ability to cover a one-goal handicap at 9/5 with William Hill.
Haaland looks to be back on form too and this United defence will give him chances. He scored a hat-trick last season – back him to score his second double in a row at 7/2 with Ladbrokes.
This English Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City will be played on Oct 29, 2023 and kick off at 15:30. Check below for our tipsters best Manchester United vs Manchester City prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
