Date: Sunday, 6 April 2025
Kick-off: 16:30 (UK time)
Venue: Old Trafford
It’s that time again — red vs blue, bragging rights up for grabs. The Manchester Derby hits Old Trafford this Sunday, and even though both clubs are underwhelming this season, the fire in this rivalry never dies. Whether you’re here for the spectacle or looking for that smart bet, here’s your complete matchday lowdown.
Recent Meetings
- December 2024: City 1-2 United
- March 2024: City 3-1 United
- October 2023: United 0-3 City
- January 2023: United 2-1 City
- October 2022: City 6-3 United
Plenty of goals in recent derbies — both teams have scored in four of the last five. That trend could continue.
United’s Form: D-W-D-W-L
Still searching for consistency. Two wins in five isn’t exactly promising, and Old Trafford hasn’t been the fortress it once was.
United Players to Watch
- Bruno Fernandes – Operating deeper but still pulling the strings. 8 goals, 9 assists this season.
- Alejandro Garnacho – A counter-attack threat with raw pace and directness.
- Harry Maguire – Reborn under Ruben Amorim — a surprising anchor in the backline.
United Injury Report
- Jonny Evans (muscle), Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo (knocks)
- Lisandro Martinez (knee), Amad (ankle), Ayden Heaven (leg)
City’s Form: W-L-W-L-D
No Rodri, no rhythm. Their form has been patchy, with just two wins from five.
City Players to Watch
- Omar Marmoush – January signing already with 4 goals in 7 games.
- Erling Haaland – 21 league goals and still hungry.
- Josko Gvardiol – More than just a defender — 5 goals from the backline.
City Injury Report
- Rodri (knee), Oscar Bobb (knock), Manuel Akanji (abductor)
- John Stones (thigh), Nathan Ake (foot), Haaland (ankle — likely to play)
Probable Starting XIs
Manchester United (3-4-3): Onana; Mazroui, De Ligt, Maguire; Yoro, Dalot, Ugarte, Fernandes; Zirkzee, Eriksen, Hojlund
Manchester City (4-3-3): Ederson; Nunes, Khusanov, Dias, Gvardiol; Gonzalez, Marmoush, B. Silva; Foden, Doku, Haaland
Smart Bets
- Double Chance (Draw or City) – 17/50
- Both Teams to Score (Yes) – 27/50
This fixture delivers goals — and with neither team at their best, City should at least grab a point.
Value Picks
- Over 3.5 Total Goals – 73/50
Expect fireworks. Both teams leak goals and have the firepower to make this a high-scorer. - Draw & BTTS (Yes) – 107/100
Four of the last five have seen both score. A draw feels right given current form.
Final Prediction: 2-2 Draw
This isn’t the title-deciding derby we’re used to, but it has the makings of a classic nonetheless. Expect goals, drama, and — ultimately — a share of the spoils.