Preview
For many, it's God's day of rest; for Manchester, it's play time.
On Sunday 22nd September, the world will cast its Beady Eye on the ignition of a fresh rivalry. A paradisaical Oasis of football awaits the Etihad and the Robin Van Persie demons that still make Eastlands creek at night must be erased.
Come 6pm, the blues will be High Flying in the Barclays Premier League table; we hope.
It's been a summer of change for both Manchester clubs. Managerial appointments and a number of fresh signings (for one team at least) bring a crisp, unpredictable excitement to the derby. Fernandinho, Navas, Jovetic and Negredo all seem to be comfortable in their new sky blue tees and Marouane Fellaini has added strength and poise to United's midfield. Sunday will present them all with the perfect stage to show their worth as 48,000 roaring spectators nervously watch on.
However, both clubs have started the 2013/2014 campaign with minimal acceleration. Respective losses to Cardiff and Liverpool have left throbbing wounds, but also mean the two Manchester giants sit on 7 points.
It's all to play for.
Mancini's minions were dealt a sickening blow last year when Robin Van Persie's late free-kick saw Fergie's champions record a smug 2-3 victory. However, Pellegrini's home record at his new club is still glistening and the Chilean won't want to spoil it with a high profile loss to his new, bitter rivals. David Moyes has a frustratingly impressive record against the blues having led Everton to 10 victories from 22 games since his reign at Everton began in 2002.
It's unconquered ground for both bosses and both would love to boast a first ever Manchester derby win. Moyes may have Premier League experience, but Pellegrini's pastoral approach will help settle the home side.
Bring your scarf, your hat... anything!
It's time to destroy the 'Devils'.
2-1
Line-Up
What's this?! A positive update on City's injury-ridden team?
It is! David Silva, Gael Clichy and Micah Richards have all returned to training ahead of Sunday's derby and may well be up for selection.
David Silva has returned to training after suffering a thigh injury.
Vincent Kompany made a commanding return to first team football in midweek, captaining his side to a glorious 3-0 victory in Plzen. Sergio Aguero is expected to lead the line following his man-of-the-match performance in the Czech Republic and Alvaro Negredo's strength and height may be employed to combat Vidic.
Key Men
Sergio Aguero
The Argentine has made a lively start to the 2013/2014 campaign and gave an exhilarating performance in Plzen on Tuesday night. His speed and strength tormented United at Old Trafford last season and he'll be our main threat on Sunday afternoon.
Wayne Rooney
There's no doubt about it, Rooney is back to his best. Two goals in mid-week and a stunning free-kick in the 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace will have left Moyes begging Rooney to injure his noggin more often. The Englishman has a fine record against City and is the man who will make Van Persie tick.
