Manchester City vs Manchester United Prediction: Manchester City are favored to edge out Manchester United in a closely contested match, with a predicted final score of 2-1 to the Premier League champions.
The 2024-25 English football season kicks off with a bang as Manchester rivals City and United face off in the FA Community Shield at Wembley Stadium. This annual curtain-raiser pits last season’s Premier League champions against the FA Cup winners in a highly anticipated clash.
Match Preview
Manchester City enter the match as slight favorites after their dominant Premier League campaign last season, which saw them clinch a record fourth consecutive title. However, Manchester United will be eager to build on their FA Cup triumph and prove they can challenge City’s supremacy.
The match represents an early chance for both sides to lay down a marker for the upcoming season. City manager Pep Guardiola will want his team to reassert their dominance, while United’s Erik ten Hag aims to show his squad can compete for top honors.
Manchester City vs Manchester United Lineups and Formations
Predicted Manchester City Lineup (4-3-3): Bobb, Grealish, Gvardiol, De Bruyne, Akanji, Lewis, Haaland, Bernardo, Kovacic, Ortega, Dias
Predicted Manchester United Lineup (4-2-3-1): Rashford, Martinez, Casemiro, Amad, Fernandes, Dalot, Zirkzee, Evans, Onana, Mainoo, Amass
City are likely to stick with their tried-and-tested 4-3-3 formation, while United may opt for a 4-2-3-1 setup to provide defensive stability while maintaining attacking threat.
Key Players to Watch
Erling Haaland
The Norwegian striker was in scintillating form during pre-season, netting a hat-trick against Chelsea. His goalscoring prowess will be crucial for City’s chances.
Bruno Fernandes
United’s creative lynchpin will need to be at his best to unlock City’s defense and provide opportunities for his teammates.
Injured Players and Unavailable List
Manchester City
- Ederson: Minor doubt, could potentially start
- Josh Wilson-Esbrand: Out with a hamstring problem
- Rodri: Not available, extended summer break
- Phil Foden: Not available, extended summer break
- Kyle Walker: Not available, extended summer break
- John Stones: Not available, extended summer break
Manchester United
- Leny Yoro: Out with a foot injury
- Rasmus Hojlund: Sidelined with a hamstring issue
- Tyrell Malacia: Unavailable due to a knee injury
- Harry Maguire: Doubtful, to be assessed before kickoff
- Victor Lindelof: Doubtful, to be assessed before kickoff
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka: Doubtful, to be assessed before kickoff
- Luke Shaw: Doubtful, to be assessed before kickoff
This list highlights the significant injury concerns for both teams, particularly Manchester United’s defensive uncertainties. These absences could play a crucial role in shaping the tactics and outcome of the match.
Where to Watch?
The match will be broadcast live on ITV1 in the UK, with coverage starting at 2:00 PM BST. International viewers can check their local listings, with many countries offering live streaming options.
Manchester City vs Manchester United Live Streaming and TV Schedule for Other Countries
- USA: ESPN+, ESPN App
- UK: ITVX, ITV 1 UK, STV Scotland, TalkSport Radio UK, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Manchester
- Canada: Sportsnet World Now, Sportsnet Now, Sportsnet World, Sportsnet Now Plus
- Australia: Optus Sport
- Germany: DAZN1, DAZN
- France: DAZN1, DAZN France
- Italy: DAZN Italia
- Spain: DAZN Spain, DAZN 1
Recent Form
Manchester City:
- W-L-L-L-L-W (Pre-season friendlies)
Manchester United:
- W-L-W-D-W-L (Pre-season friendlies)
Both teams have had mixed results in their pre-season preparations, making this encounter even more intriguing.
Head-to-Head Record
In their last 10 competitive meetings across all competitions, Manchester City have won 7 times compared to Manchester United’s 3 victories. However, United won their most recent encounter in the FA Cup final.
Who Will Win?
Given City’s recent dominance in the league and their strong record against United, they enter as slight favorites. However, United’s FA Cup final victory will give them confidence.
Manchester City vs Manchester United Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Manchester United
The match promises to be a closely fought affair, with City’s attacking prowess likely to give them a slight edge. However, United’s counterattacking threat means they cannot be discounted.
Latest News
- Manchester United have recently signed Joshua Zirkzee, who could make his debut in this match.
- City’s Kevin De Bruyne has returned to training and could feature after missing much of pre-season.
- United manager Erik ten Hag has signed a new contract until 2026, providing stability to the club.
This Community Shield clash sets the stage for what promises to be another thrilling Premier League season, with both Manchester clubs expected to be among the title contenders.
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