Manchester United vs Manchester City Match Overview – 17.01.2026

Manchester United hosts Manchester City at the Old Trafford in the great derby of Manchester. These two teams had a very different success in the last decade or more, but their rivalry continues to be as exciting as ever. Let’s preview it in our High-odds football predictions this weekend.

Most likely United will host with a new manager on helm. After the sacking of Ruben Amorim, Red Devils are negotiating contract with their club legend and former coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Now the Norwegian tactician could make his second debut against City – a team he managed to beat as a manager in the past.

Man City on the other hand don’t have a room for mistake here. The Cityzens are six points behind the leader Arsenal in the Premier League standings. It means that Pep Guardiola’s team must be flawless against the local rival.

Manchester United News & Analysis

The possible return of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the most interesting thing about Manchester United at the moment. There’s no doubt that the possible return of Ole would boost the team’s morale before facing City. Of course, only if they finish the negotiations in time.

In their last game United made their third consecutive draw in the league – 2-2 against Burnley at the Turf Moor. In this game the Red Devils were managed by another former player – Darren Fletcher, who was appointed as the interim manager. Benjamin Sesko had a great game and scored twice for United, but the team conceded twice and it was the decisive factor.

Manchester City News & Analysis

Manchester City showed some muscle just a week before facing Manchester United in the derby. The Cityzens scored 10 times for an unforgettable win against Exeter City in the FA Cup – 10-1. Pep Guardiola watched the game from the stands, but surely he was happy with his boys’ performance.

The winter signing Antoine Semenyo scored his first goal for Man City while players like Alleyne, Rodri, Lewis, Reijnders, O’Reilly and McAidoo scored as well. For Manchester City it was the best possible way to boost the team’s morale before facing United.

Erling Haaland was rested against Exeter City so he shall be in top shape against Manchester United. The Norwegian super star remains the biggest attacking threat in City’s squad.

Manchester United vs Manchester City Betting Predictions

Derbies are often unpredictable, and this one is not an exception. What can we expect from United and City in this one?

X2;
Both Teams to Score;
Draw at Half-Time;

Head-to-Head Matches

Manchester United have an advantage against Manchester City in the head-to-head statistics – 75 to 60 wins. There are 52 draws, too.

Betting Verdict

Having a new manager is always a boost, but we believe that Manchester City are favourites against Manchester United at the Old Trafford. There are too many problems at United right now, so for City it’s an opportunity to strike. Thank you for being with us and our High-odds football predictions this weekend.