That’s the opinion of Michael Owen who has singled out the absence of Kevin de Bruyne as key.
Manchester City know a win at Old Trafford would take them another step closer to retaining their Premier League title.
And they have lost only one of their last seven visits to Old Trafford.
Owen believes it is a massive game for both sides and expects the match to be an open affair.
He told BetVictor: “City have only lost one of their last seven league visits to Old Trafford but Manchester United badly need to bounce back after their abject display at Goodison on Sunday.
“All at the club will be hurting after their 4-0 defeat at Everton but they have the ideal opportunity on Wednesday to put the record straight – they certainly cannot play as badly again.
“City must do without Kevin de Bruyne – injured against Spurs at the weekend – which is a huge loss for the champions, but I expect to see opportunities and goals at both ends.
“United are unbeaten in their last 14 home league games but have kept just the two clean sheets in the league this season.
“This Manchester derby is a massive game for both teams and one which, I feel, could be pivotal in the destiny of the 2018/19 Premier League title.”
Paul Merson, on the other hand, thinks City will ‘easily’ beat United at Old Trafford.
He told Sky Sports: “I think the league will be won here as I expect Manchester City to win easily.
“Manchester United are just not very good. It was embarrassing against Everton and the players should be ashamed of themselves.
“They need to work hard this week, which will not be enough, but it is the least they can do. To lose the way they did against Everton was mind-blowing.
“They should be honoured to play for that club and they embarrassed it.
“There could be some nerves for City as United will park the bus.
“You need the second goal to make sure you win every game because at 1-0 you never know, there could be a set-play and then it’s level.”
United take on City at Old Trafford tonight from 8pm.