The stakes couldn’t be higher as Manchester City hosts Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, December 15. Both teams are chasing momentum, with City desperate to bounce back from a recent slump and United keen to build on a midweek Europa League triumph.
The match kicks off at 4:30 PM (UK time) and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the big clash, including predicted lineups and updates on team news.
PREDICTED XIS:
Manchester City (4-2-3-1)
GK: Ederson
- DEF: Walker, Dias, Simpson-Pusey, Gvardiol
- MID: Kovacic, Gundogan; Silva, De Bruyne, Foden
- FWD: Haaland
- Manchester United (4-3-3)
- GK: Onana
- DEF: Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Reguilón
- MID: Casemiro, Fernandes, Mount
- FWD: Diallo, Højlund, Garnacho
Team News and Updates
MANCHESTER CITY:
Pep Guardiola faces a defensive headache. Key absentees include:
- Rico Lewis (suspension)
- Rodri (knee)
- Oscar Bobb (broken leg)
- Nathan Ake (thigh)
- Manuel Akanji (pelvis)
- John Stones (foot)
With options limited, Guardiola may turn to academy talent Jahmai Simpson-Pusey at center-back, while Josh Wilson-Esbrand could feature on the left. Mateo Kovacic and Phil Foden are expected to return to the lineup.
Guardiola expressed optimism despite the injury woes:
“We’ve been in the games, but we need consistency. Rodri’s absence has hurt us, but we’re ready to bounce back.”
MANCHESTER UNITED:
Ruben Amorim’s squad is in better shape, with Jonny Evans back in training. However, Luke Shaw remains sidelined.
Key decisions include whether to pair veteran Harry Maguire with youngster Leny Yoro at center-back. Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho are pushing for starts after standout Europa League performances. Up front, Rasmus Højlund is likely to lead the line following his impressive midweek double.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
City’s Struggles: City has stumbled recently, losing seven of their last ten games. The absence of Rodri, described by Guardiola as a “Ballon d’Or player,” has left a gaping hole in midfield. Despite this, City has won their last three Premier League home games and will look to extend that streak against their cross-town rivals.
United’s Momentum: After an inspired Europa League comeback, United enters with renewed confidence. However, questions remain over their consistency, particularly in big games.
FUN FACT?
A City win would mark their fourth consecutive home league victory over United, a feat not achieved since the 1950s.
WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP?
Will City break out of their slump, or can United deliver a statement victory at the Etihad? All eyes will be on this high-stakes derby as both teams aim to make a mark.
