The win over Tottenham Hotspur was United's only premier league win in October, but the result wasn't enough for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to avoid losing his job. The two weeks in which players contribute to the national team are the right time for clubs to sack coaches and find replacements. Therefore, if the defeat in the Manchester derby is likely to be the trigger for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's departure.
Rafael Varane's absence puts United at a great disadvantage. The French midfielder has just returned and played a major role in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's successful 3-5-2 formation against Tottenham, injured again in the Champions League 2-2 draw against Atalanta. This makes it difficult for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to maneuver in a very precarious state for Harry Maguire, and there is a lot of uncertainty about Victor Lindelof's recovery time.
City are currently in third place, but only three points ahead of United. In the last round, Guardiola led a 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace. It was their second defeat of the season. However, with a 4-1 win over Brugge in midweek to take the top spot in the Champions League, City's confidence was partially restored.
In recent years, Guardiola has beaten Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in two encounters in the League Cup. But City have not won their last four Premier League derbys and have not scored in even the last three. Of course, United's home form is also worrying, with only one point won in the last three games. They have never conceded zero goals at home since their win over Granada in April.
Along with Varane, United lost striker Edinson Cavani due to injury and Paul Pogba was suspended. City also did not have centre-back Laporte for the penalty card, and Ferrantores did not recover. There is considerable uncertainty in this derby.