“Messy”: Paul Merson makes Manchester United vs Man City prediction

Paul Merson has now shared his predictions ahead of the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Manchester City on Sunday.

City lost their last fixture away at rivals Manchester United 2-1 in January. Jack Grealish opened the scoring with a header from close range, but a double salvo from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford turned the game on its head.

City have generally had a decent record at United in recent years but they’ll be keen to avenge last season’s defeat.

Pep Guardiola’s side currently sit just two points behind Tottenham in the Premier League table, and should Spurs fail to win at Crystal Palace on Friday night, it could give them the chance to go top with a win at United in Sunday’s late kick-off.

United have recorded three straight wins in all competitions after beating Copenhagen in the Champions League but thinks Erik ten Hag could be on the end of a “messy” scoreline at Old Trafford on Sunday when Pep Guardiola’s treble winners come to visit.

Merson said: “Manchester United’s results have papered over their cracks in recent weeks, I give them absolutely no chance against Manchester City. The Citizens will have the lion’s share of possession and United will look to hit on the break, which is how I see the game being played out.

“The Red Devils are going to get well beaten soon, so they need to be careful against City to avoid a messy scoreline.”

Merson eventually went with a 3-1 win for Manchester City