It’s been a mixed season so far for Manchester United. While the Red Devils were humbled by Hull City in their opening Premier League encounter, a win over Ipswich Town, and a last minute draw against Everton have tempered optimism generated by last season’s revival.
However, a 4-0 victory over Sabah in the came as a welcome boost for Michael Carrick’s men ahead of their Premier League Derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Carrick’s first Manchester derby as interim manager brought a victory and bought him time. Eight months later, after leading Manchester United to a third-placed finish and being appointed on a permanent basis, expectation has soared ahead of the Derby clash.
On the other hand, for the first time in 10 years, Manchester United go into the Derby against a no longer guided by the genius of Guardiola. The Spaniard departed the club at the end of the previous season with taking over the coaching responsibilities.
If Manchester City win at Old Trafford, Maresca’s men would open a eight-point lead over Manchester United only four rounds into the Premier League season. Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, let’s take a look at the match-ups, who will dictate the whole 90 minutes.
Manchester City striker has already scored five goals in five games this season, including three in the Premier League, setting the pace in the Golden Boot race. The Norwegian has scored eight times in only seven Premier League games against Manchester United.
On the other hand, Brazilian Matheus Cunha has led the line in all three league games for the Carrick’s men, after registering 10 goals in his debut campaign in 2025/26.
Rayan Cherki has started the season brightly, with two goals and two assists. Bruno Fernandes has resumed his Manchester United influence, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist against Ipswich Town.
Elliot Anderson has been the most dominant disruptive midfielder of recent seasons and since joining Manchester City, he has become a crucial link in their transitions. On the other hand Kobbie Mainoo experienced a resurgence under Carrick at Manchester United, relying on his passing ability to weave together the team.
Antoine Semenyo is yet to match last season’s goalscoring exploits, but already has two assists for Manchester City. Cameroonian has started sharply with two goals in three matches for Manchester United.
Manchester United: Senne Lammens; Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw; Kobbie Mainoo, Youri Tielemans; Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu; Matheus Cunha
Manchester City: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Abdukodir Khusanov, Ruben Dias, Marc Guehi, Josko Gvardiol; Elliot Anderson; Antoine Semenyo, Enzo Fernandez, Rayan Cherki, Iliman Ndiaye; Erling Haaland
