You've probably been there. It’s Saturday morning, the kettle is on, and you’re frantically scrolling through a messy TV guide trying to figure out if your team is actually being broadcast or if you're stuck listening to local radio. Today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, is a massive day for the calendar. Between a high-stakes Manchester Derby and a packed EFL schedule, knowing what channel is uk football on today is the difference between catching the opening whistle and spending twenty minutes staring at a "no signal" screen.
Honestly, the TV rights in the UK have become a bit of a labyrinth lately. We've got Sky Sports Plus, TNT Sports, and the usual Main Event channels all vying for your subscription. If you’re looking for the quick answer: the Manchester Derby is the early showstopper on Sky, while Nottingham Forest and Arsenal take the evening slot on TNT.
The Premier League Breakdown: Derby Day and Beyond
If you’re a neutral, your eyes are likely on the Etihad. Or Old Trafford? It's Manchester United vs. Manchester City at 12:30 pm. This isn't just a local rivalry today; it’s a massive tactical battle that Sky Sports is plastering across Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR.
You'll want to tune in early for the build-up. Usually, they start the yap at 11:30 am.
After the derby, we hit the 3 pm blackout. It's a weird British tradition that still baffles fans abroad, but basically, you won't find any Premier League games on live TV in the UK during that window. You’ve got to wait for the highlights on Match of the Day later tonight on BBC One.
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The late game is a cracker too. Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal kicks off at 5:30 pm. For this one, you need to switch over to TNT Sports 1 or TNT Sports Ultimate. Forest at home under the lights is always a vibe, and Arsenal's title hopes usually get a proper test at the City Ground.
What Channel Is UK Football On Today For EFL Fans?
The EFL schedule is where things get truly busy. Sky Sports Plus has changed the game here. Instead of just one or two featured matches, they are now streaming a heap of games simultaneously.
The "main" EFL game today is the M69 derby: Coventry City vs. Leicester City. This one is on Sky Sports Football and kicks off at 12:30 pm, clashing right with the Manchester Derby. Brutal choice for fans who like both.
But wait, there's more. If you're looking for other Championship or League One action, check the Sky Sports Plus red button or the app.
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- Ipswich Town vs. Blackburn Rovers (Championship) - 12:30 pm on Sky Sports+
- Watford vs. Millwall (Championship) - 12:30 pm on Sky Sports+
- Wigan Athletic vs. Bolton Wanderers (League One) - 12:30 pm on Sky Sports+
- Bradford City vs. Cardiff City (League One) - 12:30 pm on Sky Sports+
It’s a bit of a frenzy. Basically, if your team is in the EFL and playing a 12:30 pm kick-off, they’re almost certainly on Sky Sports Plus. The evening EFL slot features Swansea City vs. Birmingham City at 5:30 pm, which you can catch on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
Don't Forget the National League and Women's FA Cup
It isn't just the top flights getting airtime. DAZN has been leaning hard into the National League lately. Today, they've got Hartlepool United vs. Altrincham at 12:30 pm and York City vs. Southend United at 5:30 pm.
For the Women’s FA Cup fans, there's a fourth-round clash today. Tottenham Hotspur Women vs. Leicester City Women is being shown on SPURSPLAY at 12:00 pm. It's a bit niche, but for supporters of the women’s game, it’s a vital fixture.
The European Influence
If you’re a bit of a football hipster or just love a good continental clash, the Bundesliga is offering up a heavyweight fight. RB Leipzig vs. Bayern Munich is on Sky Sports Plus at 5:20 pm.
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German football always brings the goals, and with Bayern chasing another title, this is a "must-watch" for anyone who has finished watching the Premier League early game and isn't quite ready for the Forest vs. Arsenal match.
Navising the 2026 Streaming Maze
So, why is it so confusing? Sorta boils down to the way rights are packaged. We've seen a shift toward more digital-first platforms. You've got:
- Sky Sports: Still the king for the bulk of games.
- TNT Sports: Usually takes the Saturday evening and mid-week slots.
- Amazon Prime: They usually take specific "rounds" of games, but they aren't the primary home for today's matches.
- NOW: The best bet for those who don't want a long-term contract but want to stream the Sky games.
If you are wondering what channel is uk football on today and you are currently outside the house, the Sky Sports App and discovery+ (for TNT) are your lifelines. Just make sure your battery is charged.
Actionable Tips for Today's Viewers
- Check the Red Button: If you have a Sky Q or Sky Glass box, the "Red Button" or the Sky Sports Plus tab is where the "extra" EFL games live.
- Sync Your Devices: If you’re planning to watch the Manchester Derby but want to keep an eye on the Coventry vs. Leicester score, have the Sky Sports app open on your tablet.
- Match of the Day: Set the record button for BBC One at 10:30 pm. Even with all the live games, there’s nothing like the 3 pm goal montages.
- Pub Finder: If you don't have TNT Sports, use a "match pint" style app to find a local that is showing the Forest vs. Arsenal game.
Whether you’re a die-hard United fan or just want to see if Wrexham can climb the Championship table, today is a massive day for the sport. Grab your remote, settle in, and enjoy the ride.
Make sure to double-check your local listings if you're in a region with specific blackout variations, but for the most part, the schedule above is your definitive map for today's footballing landscape.