If you’re scrambling to find out what time is the Manchester United game, you aren't alone. It’s been a chaotic week at Old Trafford. With the recent departure of Ruben Amorim and Michael Carrick stepping into the hot seat, the stakes for this specific fixture couldn't be higher.
The short answer: Manchester United plays Manchester City this Saturday, January 17, 2026.
If you are in the UK, the game kicks off at 12:30 PM GMT. For the fans across the pond in the US, that’s an early start at 7:30 AM ET or 4:30 AM PT.
Why the Manchester Derby Time Matters This Weekend
This isn't just another game. It’s the 198th Manchester derby. Honestly, the timing is almost poetic. Carrick, a man who has won everything there is to win in a red shirt, starts his tenure as head coach against the "noisy neighbors."
Sky Sports is handling the broadcast in the UK, and they are leaning into the drama. Coverage starts at 11:00 AM on Sky Sports Premier League and Main Event. That’s 90 minutes of build-up featuring Roy Keane, Micah Richards, and Daniel Sturridge. You can bet Keane will have some choice words about the recent managerial merry-go-round.
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In the United States, the game is being carried by USA Network. If you’re a cord-cutter, you can stream it via the NBC Sports app or FPL managers might be watching even more closely given the wild form of City’s new signing Antoine Semenyo.
TV Schedule and Streaming for the United Game
Knowing the time is half the battle; finding the right channel is the rest.
- UK Viewers: Catch it on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, or Sky Sports Ultra HDR.
- US Viewers: USA Network is your go-to. You can also stream it on Peacock or FuboTV.
- Global Fans: BeIN Sports and Optus Sport will carry the match in their respective territories.
United is currently sitting 7th in the Premier League table with 32 points. They are desperate. A win here doesn't just give them bragging rights; it keeps them in the hunt for European football. City, meanwhile, is breathing down Arsenal's neck for the top spot.
What to Watch for During the Match
Carrick’s first game involves a lot of tactical "what-ifs." Will he stick to the back three that Amorim favored, or will he revert to a more traditional United 4-2-3-1?
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The return of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo from the Africa Cup of Nations is a massive boost. Amad, specifically, has a history of ruining City’s day, like that late winner at the Etihad back in September. But the biggest factor is Bruno Fernandes. If he’s on his game, United has a chance. If not, Pep Guardiola’s side—unbeaten in their last 13—might make it a long afternoon for the home crowd.
Basically, if you’re trying to plan your Saturday, set that alarm early. The atmosphere at Old Trafford is going to be electric, regardless of the recent form.
Looking Ahead at the Fixture List
After the derby, the schedule doesn't get any easier. United travels to the Emirates to face league leaders Arsenal on Sunday, January 25, at 4:30 PM GMT.
The "impossible job" is officially underway for Carrick. Fans are tired of the transition periods, but there's a weird sense of optimism whenever a club legend takes the wheel. We saw it with Solskjaer, and we're seeing it again now. Whether that optimism lasts past the 90th minute on Saturday is anyone's guess.
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To stay updated on any last-minute schedule changes due to weather or cup replays, keep an eye on the official Premier League app or the Manchester United website. Kickoff times for the later February fixtures, like the West Ham and Everton games, are already locked in for TV, but the Manchester derby remains the one everyone is talking about right now.
Make sure your subscriptions are active and your snacks are ready. 12:30 PM on Saturday is the only time that matters this week for the red half of Manchester.
Check your local listings to confirm if your specific cable provider has moved the game to a secondary channel, and ensure your streaming apps are updated to avoid any "buffering" heartbreak right as the whistle blows.