Carrick is set to take charge of his first match since replacing Ruben Amorim, with United struggling for consistency. They sit seventh in the Premier League, having managed just one win in their last six league games, while a recent FA Cup exit has added to the pressure around the club.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Carrick has stressed the importance of mentality and commitment ahead of one of football's most demanding fixtures.

"We know how big these games are for the club and the fans," Carrick said. "It's about having that mindset that we can handle these big environments. We have to 100 percent commit everything that we've got to give for the club."

United receive a welcome boost ahead of the derby. Harry Maguire is fit again, while Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo return from Africa Cup of Nations duty, giving Carrick more depth in a squad that has looked stretched in recent weeks.

Manchester City arrive second in the table, six points behind leaders Arsenal, and are looking to respond after three consecutive league draws. Pep Guardiola has warned against underestimating United, pointing to their history and individual quality.

"They are the best team in England historically," Guardiola said. "They have good players and they are always dangerous."

City's recent cup form suggests they are sharpening their edge. They have scored freely in the FA Cup with a 10-1 win over Exeter City and have beaten Newcastle United 2-0 in the League Cup semi-final.

January signing Antoine Semenyo has made an immediate impact, scoring in each of his first two matches, while young defender Max Alleyne is preparing for his first taste of derby football.

"It will be my first Manchester derby, so I'm really looking forward to it," Alleyne said. "I'm sure the atmosphere will be amazing."

Guardiola has also raised concerns over Erling Haaland's workload. The striker leads the Premier League scoring charts with 20 goals but has not scored from open play since December 20.

"Hopefully Omar will be back soon to give rest to Erling because Erling is exhausted," Guardiola said, as City wait for Omar Marmoush's return from Africa Cup of Nations duty.

Steve Barker in awe of current Stellenbosch squad