The Preview: Manchester Derby

The Manchester Derby really has become that game; one of those games that everyone circles in their calendar, the one that always delivers drama and chaos, and the one for iconic moments.

Since their first meeting back in 2019, the two sides have now faced 17 times, each adding a new storyline to this deep rivalry, and with teams heading into the game in hot form, this year’s showdown might just be the spiciest yet.

The inaugural WSL derby day in 2019 set the tone early – played in front of 31,213 fans at the Etihad, a moment of pure brilliance from Caroline Weir saw the Citizens gain the bragging rights in their 1-0 win.

For the red side, they were forced to wait until 2021 to seal their first victory, edging a 2-1 win in the League Cup, thanks to a dramatic late goal from Ona Batlle.

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Whilst the rivalry continues to grow, the numbers reveal a clash historically tilted in the Blues’ favour. City currently lead the way with nine wins whilst neighbours United have four to their name.

The two sides have played out a stalemate in just four encounters, with their most recent fixture ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Melvine Malard’s equaliser earned then the vital point they needed to secure UWCL qualification at City’s expense.

You can’t talk about the Manchester derby without mentioning the unforgettable moments that have shaped one of the most compelling rivalries in the WSL.

Former City star Caroline Weir may just be the definition of unforgettable… well, certainly for Man United fans. Her thunderous strikes in both 2019 and again in 2022 instantly became part of derby day folklore.

2023 delivered one of the most chaotic, dramatic clashes in derby history. Scoring a last gasp winner to keep United’s title hopes alive, Lucia Garcia’s strike saw Leigh Sports Village erupt, sealing a 2-1 victory.

When discussing derby day drama, you just have to mention Chloe Kelly. Her ability to rattle the entire United fanbase in their own backyard was unmatched.

After assisting in City’s 3-1 win, Kelly headed over to the Stretford End, cupping her ears and shushing the home supporters which was later followed by that iconic Instagram post.

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Then came 2025…

A true Red Devil in Ella Toone announced her return from injury in spectacular fashion, netting a hattrick at the Etihad in their 4-2 victory and finally putting an end to her goalless run against the Blues.

As Derby Day approaches, the spotlight falls on two very familiar figures. Former City baller, Jess Park, arrives in blistering form for her new side, producing 4 goals and 2 assists, whilst Grace Clinton, who switched red for blue, will be looking to regain her form following injury.

Both teams come into the game in strong but contrasting circumstances. The hosts, City, sit at the top of the league, riding a wave of confidence after seven straight wins, unbeaten since their opening day defeat.

United, sat in third, come into the game off the back of a monumental UWCL victory at Old Trafford, though their league form took a knock with defeat to Aston Villa last time out.

However, the Blues will be without their captain, and former United star, Alex Greenwood, after the defender picked up an injury on international break and are still missing Kerolin, Mary Fowler and Lily Murphy.

In the red corner, United will be without long term absentee Millie Turner and could potentially miss the ever-reliable Phallon Tullis-Joyce, after the Golden Glove winner picked up a face injury in training.

At the top end of the pitch, we can expect fireworks. City’s Bunny Shaw and United’s Melvine Malard both come into the game at the top of the scoring charts with five goals each, setting up the spicy battle between two of the league’s most dangerous forwards.

With familiar faces, form, and bragging rights all in the mix, this derby certainly promises to be one of the most closely contested games to date!