This Manchester Derby in Matchweek 4 of the 2025/26 Premier League now features a redefined United squad built around new signings — a clear departure from last season’s setup.
2. Manchester United: Fresh Faces Leading the Line
Manchester United’s attacking line-up has undergone a wholesale revamp:
Matheus Cunha signs from Wolves (approx. £62.5m), bringing pace, flair, and proven Premier League scoring ability to United’s front line
- Bryan Mbeumo arrives from Brentford for about £71m, adding goal-scoring credentials and versatility across the front
- Benjamin Šeško, joined from RB Leipzig (approx. £66m), expected to lead the line with physical presence, technique, and aerial threat
Departures clear the way for this new trio:
- Alejandro Garnacho sold to Chelsea
- Antony transferred to Real Betis
- Rasmus Højlund moved to Napoli on loan with a buy clause
- Jadon Sancho also left on loan to Aston Villa
Supporting cast includes Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro, and young defensive prospect Leny Yoro at centre-back
Tactical Note: Under Rúben Amorim, United now likely favor a three-at-the-back formation (3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1), with Cunha, Mbeumo, and Šeško providing the attacking focal points
Manchester City: Continuity with Key Changes
City’s summer window saw the exit of Kevin De Bruyne, who left at the end of his contract — marking a significant creative void
- Jérémy Doku remains a potent attacking weapon, continuing his development and impact from the flank
- Omar Marmoush scores goals and has highlighted himself with a Premier League Goal of the Season effort
- City bolstered their squad with defensive and midfield additions: Rayan Aït-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, James Trafford, and others
Their tactical identity — fluid, possession-heavy, and pressing-focused — remains intact despite key departures.
Key Tactical Matchups
| Tactical Element | Manchester United | Manchester City |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | Cunha, Mbeumo, Šeško with pace, height, and technical play | Doku and Marmoush creativity and movement |
| Midfield | Fernandes and Ugarte orchestrating transitions; Casemiro offering balance | City recovering from De Bruyne’s departure; Reijnders and midfield squad depth tested |
| Defense | Youth and strength from Yoro in the centre; structured back three | Established structure; wings pushing high |
| Approach | Structured counter-attacks, dynamic attacking trio | Fluid possession, movements, overloads |
Who prevails? United’s new front line will test City’s reconfigured midfield. Cunha’s link play, Mbeumo’s energy, and Šeško’s airpower might unlock City’s defense. Yet City’s adaptable rhythm—especially via Doku and Marmoush—means United must remain defensively sharp and disciplined.
