Radamel Falcao says he is hoping he will be given the chance to make his derby debut at Old Trafford this weekend when Manchester United take on rivals City.
Falcao, on loan from Monaco, has only scored four goals in 23 games for United and has not started any of their last five matches but he refused to complain about manager Louis van Gaal's selection policy and insists that he is ready to experience the drama of a Manchester derby up close.
"It really means a lot to our fans and theirs, so of course I'd be thrilled to play in this match on Sunday. The atmosphere will be phenomenal," he told reporters.
"In Manchester the derby means a lot. Unfortunately I didn't play in the derby earlier this season, but you could sense the atmosphere in the city for more than a week before the match itself, it was all people were talking about."
The Colombian's future has been the subject of much conjecture, but he claims he is happy to bide his time at one of the best clubs in the world.
"Every football player wants to play, that's very normal, but I respect the manager and the decisions he makes," he added.
"I keep working hard in training, learning every day how to play in different systems, in different styles of football.
"Manchester United is a great club, I am very happy to be here and because of this I am happy to be patient."