Both teams have had underwhelming starts to the 2025/26 season. City won their opener but then lost back-to-back matches (vs Tottenham and Brighton), raising questions about consistency.
United likewise have had mixed results: a loss to Arsenal, a draw with Fulham, and a dramatic late penalty winner vs Burnley.
The derby offers both clubs a chance to reset momentum: City to arrest a slide and show they still mean business domestically, United to build confidence and prove their summer investments and tactics are bearing fruit.
Key Team News & Absences
Manchester City
•Omar Marmoush is ruled out with a knee injury picked up on international duty.
•Other injury concerns: Rayan Cherki, John Stones, possibly others.
•New goalkeeper situation: Gianluigi Donnarumma was signed from PSG and is being considered, although James Trafford has played early in the season.
Manchester United
•Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot are confirmed injuries—none will be available.
•Goalkeeper: Altay Bayindir will start despite uncertainty and a recent signing of Senne Lammens as potential competition.
Prediction / What to Expect
•Scoreline likely to be close. Given United’s injuries and City still having greater depth, City are slight favourites.
•A 2-1 or 3-1 win for City seems plausible, especially if Haaland is supported well. United could pull it off if they are compact and clinical in transitions.
