Who Will Dominate the Manchester Derby?
Manchester City are looking to return to winning ways after a mixed start to the season. The team sits comfortably in the top 3 of the Premier League and will be eager to bounce back at home. Manchester United, meanwhile, have been inconsistent, with a win, draw, and loss in their last three games. The Etihad Stadium will host this crucial clash on Sunday, 14 September 2025.
Recent Form
Manchester City have had a mixed start, losing 1-2 to Brighton and 0-2 to Tottenham, but thrashed Wolverhampton 4-0 away. The team will look to dominate possession and use their attacking flair to break down a stubborn United defence.
Manchester United have also been up and down. They beat Burnley 3-2, drew 1-1 with Fulham, but lost 0-1 to Arsenal. To get a result at the Etihad, they will need to be solid at the back and take chances on the break.
Head-to-Head History
The recent history between these sides is very close. In the last five Premier League meetings, both teams have two wins each and one draw. City have scored more goals overall in these games, but United showed resilience in their last draw (0-0, April 2025).
Previous results also include:
- Manchester City 1-2 Manchester United (Dec 2024)
- Manchester City 3-1 Manchester United (Mar 2024)
- Manchester United 0-3 Manchester City (Oct 2023)
Team News & Injuries
Manchester City will be without Mateo Kovačić and Rayan Cherki, while Marcus Bettinelli, Savinho, and Joško Gvardiol are doubtful. Key players like Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland will lead the attack.
Manchester United are missing Lisandro Martínez, with Matheus Cunha doubtful. Midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro will need to orchestrate play, while Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot will provide width on the flanks.
Lineups & Tactical Setup
Manchester City (4-3-3): Trafford – Nunes, Stones, Khusanov, Aït-Nouri – Silva, Rodri, Reijnders – Bobb, Haaland, Marmoush
Manchester United (3-4-2-1): Bayındır – Yoro, de Ligt, Shaw – Diallo, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot – Mbeumo, Mount, Cunha (if fit)
City will rely on Rodri to control the midfield and Silva, Haaland, Marmoush, and Bobb to break down United’s defence. United will try to counter through Fernandes, Diallo, and Dalot, aiming to exploit any gaps in City’s backline.
Key Battles & Players to Watch
- Erling Haaland vs Matthijs de Ligt: Haaland’s goal-scoring threat will test de Ligt’s defensive strength.
- Bruno Fernandes vs Rodri: Fernandes’ creativity versus Rodri’s midfield control could decide the game.
- Bernardo Silva (Manchester City): Silva’s movement and passing could unlock United’s defence.
- Luke Shaw (Manchester United): Shaw’s defensive work and attacking runs will be vital for United’s chances.
Pre-Match Snapshot
- Fixture: Manchester City vs Manchester United
- Date & Time: Sunday, 14 September 2025, 16:30 BST
- Venue: Etihad Stadium
- League Positions: City – top 3, United – top 10
Prediction
Manchester City are expected to edge out Manchester United in a tight contest. A 2-1 win for the home side seems likely, with Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland key to unlocking the defence, while United may threaten on the break through Bruno Fernandes.
