Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, has made an early prediction for the upcoming Premier League clash between city rivals, Manchester City and Manchester United. The match is set to take place at the Etihad on March 3.
Manchester United recently suffered a 2-1 loss against Fulham at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday, February 24. This defeat places them sixth in the league standings, trailing eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa and a further 15 behind their city rivals - Manchester City.
On the other hand, Manchester City has been enjoying an unbeaten streak across their last 17 games in all competitions. Their most recent victory was a narrow win over Bournemouth away from home with a scoreline of 1-0.
Manchester United have time to change fortune in mid-week clash
Before facing each other at Etihad Stadium on March 3rd, both teams have important fixtures lined up.
Manchester United will be playing against Nottingham Forest away in the FA Cup fifth round on February 28th. Following this match-up they will travel to face their city rivals at Etihad Stadium.
Meanwhile, before hosting their city rivals, Manchester City will be playing Luton Town away in the FA Cup fifth round scheduled for Tuesday, February 27th.
Ferdinand expects Manchester City to crush United
Despite his affiliation with Red Devils as a former player and defender of many years standing; Rio Ferdinand isn't confident about his old club's chances against its fierce rival - Man City. He believes that given current form and performance levels of both teams; it is likely that Man Utd may lose this crucial Manchester City fixture.
Rio Ferdinand, Former Manchester United captain, said:
"It’s going to be a long day, man. It’s hard enough to go to the Etihad anyway, but we’re going there with no confidence. I think we get beat by two goals. Convincingly."
In their previous encounter during October’s reverse fixture; Man City emerged victorious with an impressive scoreline of three goals to nil over Man Utd. Erling Haaland scored a brace while Phil Foden added the third goal to seal the victory for City.
With Manchester United's recent form and Manchester City's unbeaten streak, it seems like Ferdinand’s prediction could be on point. However, in football, predictions can often be overturned by actual performances on the pitch. Therefore, sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting this clash between two of England's most successful football clubs.
