Old Trafford has lost its fear factor for Manchester City , according to Blues boss Pep Guardiola.
City have won five of the last seven Premier League derbies at United, losing just once, and if they can extend that winning record tomorrow night Guardiola's side will clear a significant hurdle on the way to defending their Premier League crown.
The fine run for City at Old Trafford began with the 6-1 win in October 2011. Vincent Kompany , David Silva and Sergio Aguero started that day, with Silva and Aguero on the scoresheet.
Since then City have tended to enjoy their trips across town and Guardiola believes the Blues no longer find visits to their neighbours intimidating.
It's been a significant shift in the balance of power in Manchester since City ended a run of 34 years without a win at Old Trafford in February 2008 and they head into Wednesday's crucial clash as overwhemling favourites.
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"The reason why is the fact this club in the last decade grew a lot and it is not scary to go there," Guardiola said of City's recent record at Old Trafford.
"Before it was maybe more difficult. The players Manchester City had in the last decade made this game a little bit more equal."
United head into the derby on the back of a 4-0 thumping at Everton on Sunday, their sixth defeat in eight games.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is already being questioned about his suitability for the job, just a month after being appointed permanent manager, while the Norwegian has questioned the commitment of some of his players.
But Guardiola believes City will be facing a United side at the top of their game tomorrow night.
"I expect the best United tomorrow, I am sure," the City chief said.
"They are bright. Football players try to do their best and tomorrow is going to happen. We prepare for their strong points and weak points.
"It is a derby and all the times we play against United, the derbies are always special games and the players do their best for the fans the club. I saw the game, I imagine what will happen against us. The game against Everton is over."
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