Manchester City and Manchester United are set to clash in what promises to be a thrilling Premier League encounter on Sunday, with the coveted derby bragging rights hanging in the balance.

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad is eager to maintain pace with title contenders Liverpool and Arsenal in what has been a fiercely competitive race for the top spot. Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag faces mounting pressure to demonstrate his managerial prowess following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover and the ensuing power struggles within the corridors of Old Trafford.

In their previous meeting earlier this season, City emerged victorious with a commanding 3-0 triumph at Old Trafford, courtesy of an Erling Haaland brace and a goal from Phil Foden. However, Ten Hag’s tenure at United has been marred by controversy, with a peculiar dispute involving Fulham over a social media post seemingly targeting captain Bruno Fernandes.

Despite the off-field distractions, Manchester City have showcased their prowess on the pitch, notably with Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne’s stellar performances in the recent FA Cup clash against Luton.

The upcoming showdown at the Etihad Stadium promises high stakes and intense competition as City aims to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool, while United seeks to bolster their top-four aspirations and keep pace with rivals Aston Villa and Tottenham.

With both teams hungry for victory and the backdrop of internal power struggles at United, the Manchester derby is poised to deliver another chapter of gripping football drama.

Stay tuned for the highly anticipated clash, kicking off at 3:30 pm GMT and broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Man City have won five of the last six Premier League titles, while Manchester United’s most recent league title came in 2013 – Sir Alex Ferguson’s final year in charge.

Last year City matched their rivals’ feat from 1998-99 by winning the Treble and are battling to repeat the feat this season by vying for the Premier League title, the Champions League trophy and the FA Cup.