The city of Manchester holds its breath. Indeed, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, one of football’s most intense rivalries ignites once more. Manchester United will host Manchester City at Old Trafford in a match that promises high drama. The kick-off is set for 12:30 GMT. Furthermore, this isn’t just any derby. It marks the first game for Michael Carrick as interim manager for the Red Devils. This adds a fascinating new chapter to this historic clash.

Carrick Takes the Helm

A new era begins for Manchester United this weekend. Specifically, all eyes will be on the dugout as club legend Michael Carrick steps in as interim manager. His first test is undoubtedly a baptism of fire against their fiercest rivals. Consequently, the pressure is immense. Carrick’s appointment brings a wave of anticipation, and his strategic approach will be heavily scrutinized. Ultimately, this high-stakes match will immediately define the tone for his tenure.

Recent Form: A Tale of Two Halves

To illustrate, looking at recent encounters, the battle for Manchester has been fiercely contested. While Manchester City dominated the 2023-24 league season, Manchester United found glory elsewhere.

• 2023-24 Season:
  • Man City 3-0 Man Utd (Premier League, October 2023)
  • Man City 3-1 Man Utd (Premier League, March 2024)
  • Man Utd 2-1 Man City (FA Cup Final, 2024)

However, the 2024-25 campaign saw a shift in league fortunes, with United gaining the upper hand.

• 2024-25 Season:
  • Man Utd 2-1 Man City (Premier League, December 2024)
  • Man City 0-0 Man Utd (Premier League)

Overall, in their last five Premier League matches, City has won three, drawn one, and lost one. Their recent success is well-documented on the official Manchester City website. This mixed bag of results shows that on derby day, anything can happen.

A Rivalry Steeped in History

This derby is more than just a single match; in fact, it’s a rivalry with roots stretching back to 1881. Over 197 encounters, bragging rights have been bitterly fought for. Historically, Manchester United holds the advantage. The Red Devils have claimed 80 victories. In contrast, Manchester City has 62, with 55 matches ending as a draw. This long and storied history adds an extra layer of weight and passion to every fixture, a narrative understood by fans from Manchester to Mombasa.

Conclusion

As Saturday approaches, the stage is set for a memorable clash. Will Michael Carrick inspire a dream start to his managerial reign at Old Trafford? Or will Manchester City continue their recent league dominance in the derby? With historical pride and crucial Premier League points on the line, this match is unmissable. The 198th Manchester derby has all the ingredients of a classic, and the world will be watching.