As Manchester City get set to clash with Manchester United on Thursday, the game is all to fight for.
The high stakes match at the Etihad Stadium would heavily influence how the table would look like at the end of the season with six games left.
Many expected this season to be a showdown between both Manchester club coaches but it turned out far from expectations as Chelsea boss Antonio Conte impressed in his debut season. The dynamics since they last met in the league has since changed. Pep Guardiola was the victor in September but that was when City were running riot at first.
Manchester United have not been in top four since September but they could re-enter with a victory as they are a point behind City. Chelsea lead Spurs by seven points after their recent victory but they have played a game more. Liverpool in the third spot have played two matches more than both Manchester teams.
A victory at Etihad could hand Jose Mourinho a lifeline – to make the Champions League next season – even as they hope to win the Europa League.
With Guardiola failing to Branislav Ivanovic win any title, finishing out of the top four would be disastrous, since he came highly recommended following his exploits in Spain and Germany. Ahead of the game, three of his top stars in Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Fernandinho are battling fitness. United also have several first team stars ruled out but the game remains a massive one as they fight for the points, morale as the season winds down and possibly bragging rights.