EPL game of the week: Manchester City vs. Manchester United

The Manchester Derby will have its latest installment Saturday, December 7, when Manchester City hosts Manchester United. Throw the records out the window on this one, as we solve one of England’s most pressing questions. Is Manchester blue or red?

Manchester City vs. Manchester United, Saturday, 12:30 p.m. ET, NBCSN

Manchester City's defense will be key

Manchester City is trying to get back in the English Premier League race, as the Citizens are trying to catch league leader Liverpool. They can do that by keeping their defense up to par against United. Kyle Walker, John Stones, Nicolás Otamendi and João Cancelo will need to bring their top games to the Etihad. They will want to snuff out United chances and send the ball forward to their gifted attackers.

Getting the ball to Raheem Sterling (15 goals) or Sergio Agüero (13 goals) is a smart plan. Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva will be playmakers as they create the scoring opportunities the Citizens the chances need to win.

United needs production beyond Rashford

The Red Devils have had a disappointing season, and they’re going to need to build off their midweek win over Tottenham to boost themselves back into the conversation for a Champions League spot. They have been led on offense by Marcus Rashford, who is the only player on the roster with more than 10 goals.

Anthony Martial has also provided some offense, but United needs more production from players like Jesse Lingard, Daniel James and Juan Mata. If the Red Devils don’t get it, they’re in for a long day. Their goal should be to put pressure on City’s defense by going right at it, but they’ll need multiple players to step up on the offensive end for that to happen.

Prediction: City wins 3-1

City will come out swinging from the opening kick. Manchester United will get one during the match, but City will be too much to handle.

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