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Come Fan with UsSaturday, July 18, 2026

Manchester United vs. Manchester City: Preview and TV schedule

The Manchester Derby hasn’t been this pointless since Mark Hughes was in charge of the Citizens.

Clive Mason

The last two seasons of Manchester Derbies have been among the best and most important matches anywhere in the world, nearly rivaling El Clasico in quality and significance domestically. They’re finally matching Spain’s biggest game this season, though not because of the improved quality of both sides. The second Manchester Derby of the season is similar to the second edition of El Clasico, in that it means absolutely nothing.

It’s still worth watching, because both teams are very good, but the title is already headed to Old Trafford. Nothing short of an absolutely monumental collapse, the likes of which has never been seen before, could lead to City lifting the title. United lead by 15 points, and a win today should lead to them clinching the title before May hits. This is really just for pride.

Manchester United injuries and suspensions

Out: Darren Fletcher (bowel surgery). In doubt: Nemanja Vidic (back), Jonny Evans (hamstring).

Manchester City injuries and suspensions

Out: Jack Rodwell (hamstring), Maicon (knee), Micah Richards (knee)

Fletcher and Richards are both long-term absences and out for the season. City’s other two injuries are nothing new either, though they’re expecting Rodwell back next weekend. Vidic and Evans both face late fitness tests.

Match date/time: Monday, 8 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET

Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester, England

TV: Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), ESPN (U.S.), TSN (Canada)

Online: SkyGo (U.K.), Watch ESPN (U.S.)

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