The explanation for the derby match between Manchester United and Manchester City’s peculiar kickoff timing has been provided.
On Sunday, the first Manchester derby of the 23/24 season will take place between United and City.
Last year, Marcus Rashford’s goal at Old Trafford gave United a 2-1 victory.
At the Etihad, City defeated United 6-3 thanks to hat-tricks from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
The kickoff time for their first Premier League encounter of the year has been set for 3:30.
On their official website, United explained the explanation behind the out-of-the-ordinary start time, saying: “The derby with Manchester City will be staged towards the end of the month, with the Old Trafford match being rescheduled to 29 October, kicking off at 15:30 GMT. The game, which we won 2-1 last year with a spectacular winner from Marcus Rashford, will be shown live on Sky Sports in the UK.
“The unusual start time was agreed upon following consultation between the clubs, the broadcaster, and local authorities.”
After United’s disappointing start to the season, City will enter the match as the overwhelming favourites.
Despite adding players like Rasmus Hojlund, Andre Onana, and Mason Mount, United has so far fallen short of expectations.
The team of Erik ten Hag is now in eighth place in the Premier League with only 15 points from its first nine games.
City, however, is going through a rough patch after suffering consecutive defeats to Wolverhampton Wanderers and Arsenal.
But the defending champions recovered with a tenacious 2-1 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion.
Prior to the derby, United plays FC Copenhagen in the Champions League, while City faces Young Boys of Switzerland.
Which team do you anticipate winning the Manchester derby? Please tell us in the comments.