Manchester United vs Manchester City | Old Trafford, Manchester | Premier League Matchday 22 | 15:30 EAT

The 198th Manchester derby takes center stage at Old Trafford! With Ruben Amorim sacked earlier in January, interim boss Michael Carrick takes charge for his first game against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. The Red Devils sit seventh and seek a reaction, while City, second and chasing leaders Arsenal, aim to maintain momentum after recent draws.

Current Form and Standings

Manchester United are seventh with 32 points from 21 games (8 wins, 8 draws, 5 losses). They've struggled for consistency, dropping points from winning positions more than most, but recent results include a 2-2 draw with Burnley and a narrow FA Cup loss to Brighton.

Manchester City sit second with 43 points (13 wins, 4 draws, 4 losses), six points behind Arsenal. Unbeaten in nine league games (W6 D3), but they've drawn their last three Premier League matches, showing rare vulnerability defensively.

Recent Form (last 5 Premier League):

• Manchester United: W-L-D-D-D

• Manchester City: W-W-D-D-D

  
  

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Team News and Predicted Lineups

Manchester United: Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo return from AFCON. Harry Maguire fit again. Out: Matthijs de Ligt (back), Shea Lacey (suspended), Noussair Mazraoui (AFCON). Carrick likely opts for a 4-2-3-1 to counter quickly.

Predicted Man Utd XI (4-2-3-1): Senne Lammens; Diogo Dalot, Ayden Heaven, Lisandro Martínez, Luke Shaw; Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte; Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha; Benjamin Sesko.

Manchester City: Heavy defensive injuries – Rúben Dias, Joško Gvardiol, John Stones out. January signing Antoine Semenyo in form after scoring in Carabao Cup. Rodri anchors midfield; Erling Haaland and Phil Foden key threats.

Predicted Man City XI (4-3-3): Ederson; Kyle Walker, Nathan Aké, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico O'Reilly; Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden; Antoine Semenyo, Erling Haaland, others.

Head-to-Head Record

City have dominated recent derbies: won the reverse fixture 3-0 at Etihad (Foden, Haaland goals). United's last derby win was a 2-1 at Etihad in December 2024 (Amad Diallo late winner under Amorim).

Key Stats:

• Over 2.5 goals in 9 of last 11 meetings across competitions.

• City unbeaten in last few derbies.

• Haaland has 11 goal involvements vs United (most by any City player).

Match Prediction and Betting Tips

City are favorites despite injuries – superior quality, Haaland's threat, and United's struggles. Opta gives City ~50.6% win chance, United 25.9%, draw 23.5%. Expect goals in a passionate derby.

Our Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Manchester City Citizens edge a tight contest; Haaland or Semenyo decisive.

MKEKA WA LEO

• Main Bet: Manchester City to win

• Bet on total goals: Over 2.5 Goals

• Bet on Both Teams to Score (BTTS) - Yes

• Bet on anytime scorer: Erling Haaland

• Bet on Combo: City win & over 2.5 goals
  
  

This Manchester United vs Manchester City Premier League 2025/26 derby could shift the title race. Drop your score prediction on "Post your Tips" section ✍️

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