Manchester United F.C. vs Manchester City F.C. Prediction 17 January 2026

Manchester United’s recent form has been underwhelming. Over the past month, they have managed just one victory — a narrow 1–0 win over Newcastle — alongside a 1–2 defeat to Aston Villa and three consecutive draws against Wolverhampton (1–1), Leeds (1–1), and Burnley (2–2). As a result, the Red Devils sit seventh in the table with 32 points and a goal difference of 36–32.

Manchester City have also dropped points in 2026, drawing with Sunderland (0–0), Chelsea (1–1), and Brighton (1–1). However, victories over West Ham (3–0) and Nottingham Forest (2–1) in late December keep them firmly in the title race. With 43 points and an impressive 45–19 goal difference, City occupy second place.

City won the reverse fixture earlier this season, and under Pep Guardiola, they have often turned trips to Old Trafford into painful afternoons for their neighbors. My prediction: once again, the favorites should justify their higher status.

Manchester City to win 2.00