The Manchester derby, the highlight match of the 4th Premier League round, will take place on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at 16:30 BST at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City hosts Manchester United in a tense context, with both teams seeking points after contrasting season starts. While City has just suffered two consecutive defeats following a large initial victory, United relies on a late win against Burnley to regain confidence ahead of this major clash.
A blow disrupts Pep Guardiola’s plans: Omar Marmoush, the Egyptian winger, was forced to leave the field early during World Cup qualifiers with his country, suffering a knee injury that will keep him out of the derby. This significant absence adds to the already confirmed absences of Rayan Cherki, injured in the thigh, and John Stones, sidelined due to muscular pain. City’s medical staff continues examinations, but initial assessments exclude Marmoush from the Etihad match.
On their side, Manchester United, led by Ruben Amorim, aims for a second consecutive away win at the Etihad for the first time since 2020. However, the club has to deal with uncertainties about Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount, slightly injured in the last match against Burnley, as well as Diogo Dalot, who left the Portuguese national team due to muscular discomfort. The circumstances could favor a crucial tactical duel while City also counts on key players, notably Erling Haaland, who has shown impressive performances with his national team, to weigh offensively.
This derby promises to be intense and highly consequential for the Premier League. Broadcast live on Sky Sports and followed by millions of fans, Pep Guardiola will have to decisively readjust his offensive setup against an ambitious United in a key match that could redefine the respective dynamics of the two Manchester giants early this season.