2016-17 EPL: Manchester City vs Manchester United Betting Tips

Two of the best coaches of the English Premier League – if not the world – come face-to-face this week as the scramble for top-four places continue between Manchester United and Manchester City. That makes Manchester Derby at the Etihad one of the most awaited games of the season.

Pep’s chance to salvage the season
For all the fanfare that Guardiola brought to the club, this has been a season of disappointment for City. After Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final defeat to Arsenal, he will finish a season empty-handed for the first time in his career. That looked a far-fetched dream when City started the season with ten straight wins. But here, we are!

Reaching last four of the Champions League, winning the League Cup and finishing fourth last year was considered a failure. But the best Pep can do this season is finishing fourth and he is on the verge of being written off as a disaster.

Pep’s side is just one point ahead of their neighbors and any loss at the Etihad will be catastrophic for City. Sergio Aguero and David Silva are doubtful for this match although Pep will have Gabriel Jesus at his disposal.

Is it a chance for Jose to outshine his rival?
It’s a strange season at Old Trafford for Mourinho. Having won the League Cup and reached the semis of Europa League, the optimism is high that they can call this season a success.

Realistically speaking, United have only an outside chance of securing automatic qualification for the Champions League. With the run-in they have, Jose would not be blamed if he prioritized Europa over Premier League. After all, winning Europa will add another trophy and secure promotion to Champions League.

Jose has a lot to ponder ahead of the derby with so many injuries stifling his team selection. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is out for the season which means a chance for Marcus Rashford to lead the line and make his mark.

Prediction
United have a 23-game unbeaten run but face a very tough run-in for securing the top-four spot. City on the other hand do not face a top six side in their remaining five league games after this. Advantage City! Back the hosts to win at odds of $1.87 (Ladbrokes).

TIP: Manchester City to win – $1.87 at Ladbrokes

United’s brittle defence has kept clean sheets in the last couple of matches but both sides are prone to conceding goals. Back the punt on both sides scoring at odds of $1.67 (Ladbrokes).

Gabriel Jesus has been the start player for Pep before injury did him in. Now that he’s back to being fully fit, it’s time for Guardiola to unleash him. Back him to score a goal anytime at odds of $2.30 (bet365).

TIP: Gabriel Jesus to score anytime – $2.30 at bet365

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NOTE: TIPS IN THIS ARTICLE ARE SIMPLY THE AUTHOR’S OPINION. ALWAYS GAMBLE RESPONSIBLY