A heavyweight clash is set to kick-start the new football season as Manchester City and Manchester United face off in the Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, August 10.
Fresh from their historic fourth consecutive Premier League title, the Citizens will lock horns with their arch-rivals, who claimed FA Cup glory last season. The Red Devils had defeated City 2-1 in the FA Cup final at the same venue when the teams last met.
The Manchester derby is one of English football's most iconic clashes and the rivalry dates back to 1894/95. It intensified significantly after Manchester City's acquisition by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008.
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City's subsequent dominance, marked by six Premier League titles since then, has transformed the dynamic of the fixture. However, United's historical advantage, including a superior trophy haul featuring three European Cups/Champions Leagues and a Europa League, adds another layer of intrigue to the already fierce competition.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
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Manchester United vs. Manchester City live stream, TV channel
Here’s how you can watch the 2024 Community Shield match in the U.S.:
TV Channel: —
Live Stream: ESPN+
This game isn't available for live TV broadcast and as a result is only available to live stream exclusively on ESPN+.
What time will Man United vs. Man City kick off?
This Community Shield clash takes place at the Wembley Stadium in London, UK and kicks off on Saturday, August 10 at 3:00 p.m. local time (BST).
Here's how that time translates across the U.S.:
Date | Kickoff time | |
Eastern Time | Sat, Aug. 10 | 10:00 a.m. |
Central Time | Sat, Aug. 10 | 9:00 a.m. |
Mountain Time | Sat, Aug. 10 | 8:00 a.m. |
Pacific Time | Sat, Aug. 10 | 7:00 a.m. |
Man United vs. Man City lineups, team news
Manchester United will face Manchester City in the Community Shield with a depleted squad due to multiple injuries. Key attacking players Rasmus Hojlund, Antony, and Marcus Rashford are sidelined, along with recent signing Leny Yoro.
While the absences present challenges for manager Erik ten Hag, they may simplify team selection in certain positions. The defensive line-up is expected to feature a more traditional formation, with Andre Onana in goal and a central defensive partnership of Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Harry Amass are likely to start as full-backs.
In midfield, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount are expected to form the starting trio. The absence of Kobbie Mainoo, recovering from the Euros final, is a setback.
The attacking lineup is less certain due to the injuries. Amad Diallo's strong pre-season performances increase his chances of starting, while Joshua Zirkzee is in line for his competitive debut. Jadon Sancho will aim to regain his place in the team.
Man United predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Onana (GK) – Dalot, Martinez, Amass, Evans – Casemiro, Eriksen – Amad, Mount, Sancho – Rashford.
Injured: Malacia (knee), Yoro (ankle), Højlund (hamstring)
Suspended: N/A
Despite their recent dominance in the Premier League, Manchester City's manager, Pep Guardiola, is known for his experimental approach, especially in cup finals and early-season matches.
Key players like Rodri, Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden may be sidelined longer after their Euro 2024 commitments. Yet, City's squad depth remains strong with Mateo Kovacic's midfield growth and the promising performances of Oscar Bobb and Jack Grealish.
Rico Lewis and Nathan Ake can cover defensive roles, while Stefan Ortega is likely to continue as the cup goalkeeper amid speculation about Ederson's future. Emerging talent Nico O'Reilly, who shone in pre-season, might also get significant playing time.
Man City predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Ortega (GK) – Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol – Phillips, Kovacic – Bobb, McAtee, Grealish – Haaland.
Injured: N/A
Suspended: N/A
Man United vs. Man City prediction
- Prediction: Man United 1-2 Man City
After a sluggish pre-season, Manchester City showed their strength in a recent match against Chelsea, positioning themselves as favorites for the upcoming derby against Manchester United. With their form on the rise, City is predicted to secure a 2-1 victory over their rivals.