Manchester City and Manchester United are preparing for an early-season derby clash that already feels significant for both clubs. The game takes place at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, September 14 at 4:30pm local time, with City and United each looking to gain traction after inconsistent starts to the season.
Both teams have invested heavily in their squads, but it’s the goalkeepers who are drawing attention ahead of kickoff. City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG to replace Ederson, who recently departed for Fenerbahce. While Donnarumma could make his debut in this match, manager Pep Guardiola has indicated he won’t demand the same ball-playing style from the Italian that Ederson was known for. James Trafford has started the first three league games but may now make way.
United, meanwhile, brought in Belgium’s Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, but manager Ruben Amorim confirmed Altay Bayindir will continue in goal. Andre Onana was sent on loan to Trabzonspor this week after an underwhelming spell. Amorim stated that Lammens will need time to adjust, while also calling him a long-term option for the club.
City’s recent form includes back-to-back league defeats to Tottenham and Brighton, raising concerns about squad depth and cohesion. United, on the other hand, followed a loss to Arsenal with a draw against Fulham and a narrow win over Burnley, needing a late penalty from Bruno Fernandes. They also suffered a League Cup exit at the hands of fourth-tier Grimsby Town.
In terms of injuries, City will be without striker Omar Marmoush, who picked up a knee injury while on international duty with Egypt. Phil Foden and John Stones are also doubts. United are missing Matheus Cunha, Diogo Dalot, and Mason Mount. With Cunha out, Benjamin Sesko is expected to lead the line for the first time since his move from RB Leipzig.
This will be the 196th Manchester derby. United have the edge historically with 79 wins to City’s 61. Last season, United won the corresponding fixture at the Etihad 2-1 thanks to a late surge, and City haven’t beaten United in their last four meetings across all competitions.
Both managers are feeling the pressure to deliver. Guardiola is managing a post-title era transition, while Amorim is attempting to implement a new system and culture at Old Trafford. With Champions League fixtures looming, a positive result on Sunday could be a turning point for either side.
