Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium has proven to be a formidable ground in 2026, with the team securing nine victories from 10 Premier League home games. This impressive run, overseen by Michael Carrick, has yielded the division's highest home points-per-game return of 2.7.
As Manchester City prepare to visit on Sunday, the 199th Manchester derby is anticipated to be a lively affair both on and off the pitch. A United fan group, the 1958, has organised a "peaceful protest" before the match, starting at a pub near the stadium. The protest is in response to what the group perceives as disproportionate action by the club in its efforts to eliminate ticket touting.
Manchester United stated on Friday that 685 accounts have been banned, and 464 supporters have received either a reduced sanction or a final warning as part of their initiative. The club also identified 1,617 accounts requiring further review due to "unusual activity."
On the field, United will attempt to halt City's perfect start of four victories across all competitions. They will also look to improve their league form, having collected four points from their opening three games. The match offers an opportunity to replicate the 2-0 victory over Pep Guardiola's side in January, which marked the beginning of Carrick's second interim tenure.