After years in the doldrums, Manchester City have found themselves back in the big time.

Being part of the Premiership party allows them to have a regular crack at their illustrious neighbours from Old Trafford. Let battle commence!

The rivalry
It's arguably the biggest local rivalry in England, it has been compared to Celtic v Rangers without the religious undertones.

Both have always been big clubs and believe it or not City were the more successful of the two during the 1950s and the early 70s.

Since City's relegation in the early 80's and United's success in the 90's the Reds have had more to boast about than City ever had, despite the Blues relegating United in the early 70s.

Hughes scored in 1989

Denis Law was the man who scored the decisive goal for City after previously being the darling of Old Trafford.

On Merseyside familes can be split, with one brother supporting Liverpool and the other Everton, but not in Manchester, you are either a blue family or a red family.

Is it really a derby?
"You don't come from Manchester!" It's the favourite chant of City fans.

The Blues are recognised as the Manchester club and their fans make sure everyone knows it.

The fact that Old Trafford lies outisde the boundaries of Manchester City Council gives them further ammunition.

Mostly Manchester people support City, and United's fans come from all arts and parts

But that doesn't stop the game being one of the most fiercely contested derbys in the World of football.

Just a kick-about?

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City v United

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STAR PLAYER:: Nicolas Anelka Manchester City £13 million worth of Frenchman

Manchester United Factfile:

Founded: 1878 as Newton Heath (Became Manchester United in 1902) Stadium: Old Trafford capacity 67,500 Nicknames: United, Red Devils Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson

Manchester United FC

STAR PLAYER:: Ruud Van Nistelrooy Manchester United Comes alive in the penalty box