Manchester United vs Manchester City Prediction 17.01.2026 | Premier League

For Manchester United, the narrative this season has been one of uncertainty and immediate challenges. The Red Devils currently find themselves in a disappointing seventh place in the Premier League table, with 32 points earned from 21 gameweeks.

The mood around Old Trafford is one of cautious optimism tinged with significant uncertainty, following a period of managerial upheaval. The recent dismissal of Rúben Amorim, a brief interim stint under Darren Fletcher, and the subsequent appointment of former midfielder Michael Carrick as head coach until the end of the season has left the squad in a transitional phase.

Carrick’s return marks his second interim spell at the helm, and he faces a baptism of fire against Pep Guardiola’s formidable Manchester City machine. United’s form has been patchy at best — technically unbeaten in their last four league matches, yet three of those ended in draws, stalling their push for a top-four finish.

On the personnel front, right-back Noussair Mazraoui remains on international duty following Morocco’s dramatic AFCON final victory over Nigeria on penalties. However, key attacking duo Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are set to return to the squad after their nations’ exits, providing a timely boost for United as they aim to climb back into contention.

Meanwhile, Manchester City arrive at the Theatre of Dreams firmly established as genuine title contenders, currently occupying second place in the Premier League standings with 43 points, albeit sitting six points behind leaders Arsenal.

Despite maintaining an impressive nine-match unbeaten run in the league, a rare dip in form surfaced at the start of the calendar year. The Citizens were held to three consecutive 1-1 draws against Sunderland, Chelsea, and Brighton, allowing Arsenal to carve out a significant cushion at the summit of the table.

Pep Guardiola’s side, however, wasted little time in rediscovering their cutting edge. City ran riot in the FA Cup with a ruthless 10-1 demolition of Exeter City before backing it up with a commanding 2-0 away victory over Newcastle United in the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final, reaffirming their attacking prowess.

January signing Antoine Semenyo has made an instant impact, finding the net in each of his first two appearances and quickly earning Guardiola’s trust. The forward is expected to feature prominently in Saturday’s Manchester derby after his eye-catching start.

The main concern for City heading into the derby is an unexpected defensive injury crisis. Key centre-backs Rúben Dias, John Stones, and Joško Gvardiol are all sidelined with long-term issues, leaving Guardiola with limited options at the back for one of the season’s most demanding fixtures.