The eagerly anticipated Manchester Derby is scheduled for Sunday, April 6, 2025, as Manchester United hosts rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford. The match will kick off at 16:30 local time (15:30 UTC), forming part of Sky Sports' Super Sunday coverage.
Broadcast Information
UK viewers can catch the action on Sky Sports, which secured rights to broadcast a minimum of 215 live Premier League matches per season in their latest TV deal. For international audiences, various broadcasters will provide coverage, including NBC Sports in the United States and beIN Sports in the MENA region.
Team News
Manchester United
The Red Devils are grappling with several significant injury concerns:
- Lisandro Martinez (knee) - ruled out for the season following surgery
- Luke Shaw (hamstring) - returning to training, but derby participation is uncertain
- Jonny Evans (muscle problem) - sidelined
- Kobbie Mainoo (calf) - expected to return for Lyon clash
- Amad Diallo (ankle) - targeting May return
- Ayden Heaven (ankle) - expected to return before season end
Manchester City
The defending champions face their own injury challenges:
- Erling Haaland (ankle) - sidelined for 5-7 weeks, season potentially over
- Nathan Ake (foot) - out for the remainder of the season following surgery
- John Stones (thigh) - targeting late April return
- Manuel Akanji (abductor) - expected back in late April
- Rodri (ACL) - in individual training, but return date uncertain
Expert Analysis
Football pundits anticipate a tactically intriguing battle, with both teams forced to adapt their strategies due to significant absences. United's defensive reshuffling and City's attack without Haaland could lead to an unconventional derby setup. The match holds particular significance in the context of the Premier League standings and the Champions League qualification battle for the Sky Blues.
The historical rivalry between these Manchester giants adds another layer of intensity to this fixture. With both teams dealing with injury crises, the tactical approach of both managers will be crucial in determining the outcome of this pivotal clash at Old Trafford.