Manchester City vs Manchester United Predictions

• City have scored 27 goals across their last eight matches
• The hosts have scored more first-half (10) and second-half (13) goals than United’s season total
• United have conceded 75% of their goals against this season in the first-half
• Haaland has scored in six of his first seven Premier League games

Ten Hag’s derby debut

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag makes his derby debut with his side flying high. The Red Devils have won four of their last five matches and they have moved within five points of their city rivals with a game in hand.

However, the previous five Manchester United managers lost their first Manchester derby in charge. With Pep Guardiola’s side in fantastic form and scoring for fun, that run could continue.

Can dominant City be stopped?

The Citizens head into the weekend just a point shy of top spot, having won five of their last six games. The hosts have scored 27 times across their last eight games, while they’re on a nine-game winning streak at the Etihad.

City’s scoring form should leave their opponents in the dust this weekend. The champions have scored more Premier League goals in both the first half (10) and second half (13) of games this season than United have in total (8). On top of that, the Red Devils have conceded a league-high 75% of their goals in the opening 45 minutes this term (6/8).

That should set City up for an early lead here and I don’t see them letting it go. City have won three of their last four meetings with United, so back them to lead at the end of each half.

Back goals at the Etihad

Erling Haaland has scored a hat-trick in each of his last two Premier League home games for Man City, doing so against Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest. The forward has found the net in all but one of his first seven Premier League games, hitting 11 goals in total.

Haaland should return from international duty full of confidence despite Norway’s struggles. He’s slotted in easily at the Etihad and United’s defence doesn’t look the strongest despite their turnaround. Back the clinical striker to find a way through and add to his impressive tally.

Manchester City have won their last seven Premier League home games, scoring at least three goals each time. Back them to hit another three in this clash given their scoring form, with a 3-1 home victory my correct score prediction.