This Manchester derby is far more important than you think  

It is not usual that a Manchester Derby is ever understated, and “nconspicuous or discreet are hardly words you would use to describe this edition.

Yes, this 172^nd meeting of the two clubs sees a matchup of two of the best teams so far this EPL season, and also marks the first meeting since 2013 of old foes Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho.

But the result of this match determines far more than perhaps the leader of the Premier League through four matches.

Rarely at the time is it known when we have arrive at a day where the fate of a clubs' future could potentially be decided, but that is exactly the case for the Manchester clubs on matchweek 4.

Let's get ourselves clear – this is not a definitive prediction. The fate of whoever wins and loses this game could widely deviate from what I'm suggesting.

But when it comes to predicting a genuine turning point in a clubs' history, such as the beginning of an era, this could very likely be the spoils at stake for the winner of this famous local derby.

To the winner of what will likely be an instant classic will likely be first place on the EPL table, unless Chelsea piles a fair few on Swansea.

But first (or second) place on the league table will only be representative of the start of what will likely be a trophy littered spell under their new manager.

Both managers are well known for their domestic and European success at a number of clubs, and both men go about it in their own unique way.

But for both Guardiola and Mourinho, it starts the same way – arriving at a club, trimming the fat and often instantly adding star power, a step already complete at both clubs.

From there, the rebuilds often take a very different course, of which we already beginning to see, albeit with small sample sizes.

For a Mourinho led team, fans can expect on the spot tactical genius and in game adaptability. The Special One rarely concerns himself with much more than showing up at a club, gutting it and finding instant success.

The departure, usually two or three years later, doesn't matter. Although his stints occasionally end in tears, the Portuguese measures himself only by the success he enjoys, rather than the bridges burnt, and fair enough.

Guardiola's narrative usually plays out a little different. Between the dynasties built at Barcelona and Bayern Munchen, Pep is the type to put a lot more time into the development and nourishment of the entire club rather than just the first team.

Still, between a four and three-year stint at Barca's first team and Bayern, Guardiola has achieved an exceptional amount in not a lot of time.

These two all world managers will face off for the 17^th time, and as mentioned, the first time since 2013, as managers of Chelsea and Barcelona.

What a treat it is to have regular competition back between these two, again in the form of one of the keenest derbies in world football.

Through the first few weeks of competition, it would be a surprise to see one of these two missing from the end of season top four.

Given the importance this match will likely hold for the end of season standings, the winner of this match may very well end the season as champions.

Given the past of two managers, it could also be a significant moment in the histories of either Manchester City or Manchester United.