Manchester United vs. Manchester City: Bold Predictions for FA Cup Showdown

When Manchester United and Manchester City meet at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, one of them will leave with another failed attempt at a trophy this season.

With the news that Paul Scholes has been signed by United to strengthen their club, the match now has an even greater sense of excitement around it.

For Sir Alex Ferguson's United squad, nothing would turn their season around more than beating their arch rivals away from home, thus knocking City out of the competition of which they are the defending champions.

For City, a victory over their cross-town rivals would take them one step further to another FA Cup title, and keep their hopes of winning the double alive.

Let's look at three bold predictions for this match, which is sure to be filled with unbelievable excitement.

1) Paul Scholes will score

Paul Scholes has been signed by Ferguson in what seems as a desperate attempt to strengthen his midfield due to the injuries and inconsistent play that's plagued that part of the club this season.

Scholes is no stranger to big games, and in a match away from home against a huge rival, his experience and skill will play a big role for the Red Devils.

Scholes will make a triumphant return on Sunday with a goal for United.

2) Manchester City win 5-1

Winning 5-1 against a club of Manchester United's caliber is quite an accomplishment, but Manchester City beat their rivals 6-1 at Old Trafford back in October, so anything is possible.

United have been terrible in their last two matches, losing to Blackburn Rovers at home 3-2 and Newcastle 3-0. City has so much attacking firepower and with United looking really poor at the back in recent matches, this could be an ugly game for Ferguson to watch.

If City gets an early goal, don't be surprised to see them carry that momentum all match and dominate United.

3) Sergio Aguero will score a hat trick

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero scored once against Manchester United in their October league match at Old Trafford, and he will dominate the Red Devils again on Sunday.

Aguero is third in the Premier League with 14 goals, and in the club's most recent match against Liverpool, he opened the scoring early.

United don't have anyone who can handle his pace and quickness in front of goal, and if you don't close down on him, he will score from long range with his superior shot accuracy.

This is a match where the big-time players step up and perform, and Aguero will give manager Roberto Mancini a sensational performance on Sunday against their rivals.