Manchester United and Manchester City renew one of English football’s fiercest rivalries on Sunday, with points, pride and bragging rights at stake, and fans across the country getting set for a Guinness Matchday experience.
The wait is almost over.
Manchester United welcome Manchester City to Old Trafford today, Sunday, 13 September 2026, for another chapter of the Manchester derby, one of the Premier League’s most eagerly anticipated fixtures.
With both clubs bringing plenty of history, big-name players and contrasting starts to the 2026/27 campaign, supporters can expect a match packed with drama, intensity and, potentially, goals.
And while thousands of fans will experience the action inside Old Trafford, supporters across the country can make the most of the occasion with Guinness Matchday — whether watching the game at their favourite outlet or gathering at home with friends.
Because when the Manchester derby comes around, Guinness is going EXTRA.
A rivalry built for big moments
The Manchester derby has a habit of producing unforgettable football moments.
In 2022, Manchester City ran riot in a 6-3 victory, with Erling Haaland and Phil Foden both completing hat-tricks. Manchester United’s biggest derby victory remains their remarkable 5-0 triumph in 1994, when Andrei Kanchelskis scored three times.
There was also Wayne Rooney’s spectacular overhead kick at Old Trafford in 2011, a goal later described by the United legend as the most important of his Manchester United career.
Then came the chaotic 6-1 City victory the following season, when Mario Balotelli celebrated by revealing his famous “Why always me?” shirt.
Even the 2009 meeting delivered late drama, with Michael Owen scoring a stoppage-time winner after Craig Bellamy appeared to have rescued a point for City.
Sunday offers another opportunity for the derby to write itself into Premier League folklore.
Carrick faces first derby as permanent boss
For Manchester United manager Michael Carrick, the fixture carries added significance.
Carrick’s first match as interim head coach in January was a Manchester derby victory, a result that helped set United on course for an impressive third-place finish, Champions League qualification and ultimately his permanent appointment.
Now, he faces the derby again with the responsibility of leading United into another high-profile battle with their neighbours.
Manchester City, meanwhile, will experience a new era under Enzo Maresca, who takes charge of his first Manchester derby after succeeding Pep Guardiola in June.
Having previously worked alongside Guardiola as part of City’s coaching staff, Maresca knows the demands of the fixture — but Sunday will be his first taste of the derby from the manager’s seat.
Haaland, Fernandes and the stars to watch
As always, the biggest individual battles could decide the contest.
Erling Haaland enters the match in dangerous form, having already scored five goals in five matches this season, including three in the Premier League. The Norwegian has also found the net eight times in just seven Premier League appearances against Manchester United.
United will look towards Matheus Cunha, who led the line throughout their three league matches and scored 10 goals during his debut campaign last season.
In midfield and attack, the spotlight will also fall on Rayan Cherki and Bruno Fernandes. Cherki has made a bright start with two goals and two assists, while Fernandes has already reminded everyone of his influence by scoring a hat-trick and supplying an assist against Ipswich Town.
Antoine Semenyo and Bryan Mbeumo provide another intriguing battle on the wings, while Elliot Anderson and Kobbie Mainoo could be central to how both teams control the midfield.
City arrive in strong form
Manchester City have made a perfect start to their Premier League campaign and are one of only two teams, alongside Arsenal, yet to drop a league point.
Maresca’s side had to fight back to defeat AFC Bournemouth before recording more comfortable victories over Crystal Palace and Coventry City. A Champions League victory over Porto then extended their winning run to four matches.
United’s start has been more unpredictable.
After a surprise defeat to promoted Hull City on the opening weekend, Carrick’s side responded by coming from behind to beat Ipswich Town before drawing with Everton.
Their 4-0 victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah in midweek, however, will have provided a welcome boost ahead of the derby.
Make it a Guinness Matchday
For supporters who won’t be inside Old Trafford, the Manchester derby is still an occasion worth making extra special.
From meeting friends at your favourite outlet to creating your own matchday atmosphere at home, fans across the country can settle in, watch the action and enjoy their favourite Guinness as the rivalry unfolds.
Bring your friends. Put the game on. Get the snacks ready. Wear the colours. Debate every decision. And make it a Lovely Day for a Guinness.
Because a big game deserves a big matchday.
And with Guinness Matchday, the message is simple:
Guinness is going EXTRA.
Whether the derby delivers another six-goal thriller, a last-minute winner or a tense battle decided by one moment of brilliance, Guinness ensures you have a lovely day while enjoying the football with the people who make matchday special. So wherever you are watching from, make Super Sunday count.
