Yaya missed the midweek defeat to Borussia Dortmund through suspension and remained in Manchester to train while his team-mates were in Germany.
Now the Ivorian powerhouse is champing at the bit to resume the battle with the Reds and reclaim top spot in the Premier League as the title race begins to hot up.
“We respect United but we are at home and confident against anyone on our own pitch,” said Yaya. “These are the games, personally, I love because it is a challenge against a strong team.
“Matches like this are why I love being a footballer. I enjoy the pressure and expectation and everything that goes with it.
“Some guys get stressed about situations like this but it’s all water off a duck’s back to me. The eyes of the football world will be centred on Manchester and this is a game everyone will want to see - and that suits me fine.”
Yaya says City have made the Etihad Stadium a fortress over the past two years and though United arrive with the best away record in the top flight, he believes having home advantage gives the Blues the edge.
“It’s going to be a fantastic game and we know it will be tough, but they have conceded a lot of goals and we have a mentality that we will not be beaten on our own pitch,” he said.
“We will be in front of our own fans on our own ground and we are ready for this game. There is a long way to go this season but we can’t allow United to get too far in front because they are a quality team who are used to winning titles.
“Robin van Persie has done very well since he arrived and they have plenty of experience in their side, but we are looking forward to this game and are totally happy to face our neighbours.”
