Hmm, 1 of the 2 Derbies going down in Europe's Big 5 Leagues today involving teams who are at the top of their League tables.
We've got the Manchester Derby involving Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad stadium in England, and the Madrid Derby involving Athletico Madrid and Real Madrid at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano in Spain.
However, I will be going with the Manchester Derby as I would give up anything to analyze a game that's got so many things at stake.
Both teams aren't just fighting for pride this time, they've got their streaks on the line, as well as, the EPL Title Race.
Manchester City are currently on a run of 27 unbeaten games in all competitions which also include a massive 20 games winning streak, and today's derby will see them put these 2 streaks on the line.
Manchester United, on the other hand, also have their unbeaten run of 21 games away from home on the line as well.
Although many football lovers believe the EPL tithe race is over, whilst a few believe otherwise, the outcome of today's game will definitely provide a clarity on this as well.
I believe you all now have a better view of what's at stake in today's Manchester Derby as we proceed to the analysis proper.
Starting off with the home team:
MANCHESTER CITY:
1) If we are to compare these 2 teams, "General Performance" this season, it will definitely be Pep Guardiola's men who will be everyone's favorite.
Streamlining this to both team's performance in their last 8 games in all completions and it's still City who would be favorites.
The Citizens have won all their last 8 games compared to the Red Devils who have won 3 and drawn 5 in as many games.
A big one favoring Pep Guardiola's men you want to say.
2) The Citizens have also been the better side if we are to compare "head to head" between both sides in their last 8 meetings.
Pep Guardiola's men have won 4, drawn 1, and lost 3 of these 8 encounters.
Definitely another fair stat favoring the Noisy Neighbors.
3) Manchester City's "Impressive style of play" and Pep Guardiola's "Unpredictability" are definitely a third stat that can't be overlooked.
You will agree with me that these are the reasons Manchester City have been able to rack up a massive 20 straight wins, which itself is embedded in a whooping 27 unbeaten run of games in all competitions.
Another big one for Pep Guardiola's men, isn't it?
Although City look all great with the above stats, I will warn that the Red devils shouldn't be underestimated based on the following stats below.
MANCHESTER UNITED:
1) Do you know Manchester United have won 3, drawn 1, lost 1 of their last 5 visits to the Etihad stadium?
The fact that the Red devils have even won the last 2 meetings at this very ground says it all.
Some positive confidence boost for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men going into this game you might want to say.
2) Manchester United's impressive unbeaten run of 21 away games in the EPL is definitely one thing we can't over look either.
A run well noted for United's ability to neutralize bigger opponent's impressive style of play with some amazing defensive and counter attacking work, thereby, getting at least a draw at the end of the game.
You will agree with me that this is definitely another huge point favoring the Red devils.
CONCLUSION:
From the stats stated above, you will agree with me that Pep Guardiola's men look to be favorite going into this game.
However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men ruining the party won't be surprising either.
I will greatly appreciate your opinions, takes, and predictions on this game.
Much love from your Football Analyst and Writer, IbkDaGreat.
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