The Manchester derby is scheduled to commence at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, which is an hour earlier than the typical kick-off time. Normally, the later Premier League matches on Sunday start at 4:30 p.m.
This change in the fixture’s date to October 29 and the adjustment in the start time were the outcomes of discussions with various stakeholders.
Explaining the reason behind the alteration, United released a statement that read: “The derby with Manchester City will be staged towards the end of the month, with the Old Trafford encounter being moved to October 29, kicking off at 3.30 p.m.
“The fixture, which we won 2-1 last season with Marcus Rashford netting a memorable winner, is to 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.”
Both teams come into the match with a sense of assurance, having claimed victories in the midweek Champions League fixtures.
Manchester United clinched a hard-fought 1-0 win against FC Copenhagen on Tuesday, while Manchester City emerged triumphant with a 3-1 victory over Young Boys.
In the league standings, the Red Devils currently trail City by six places and six points, and they are determined to narrow that gap with a victory at Old Trafford.
In the previous season, they secured a win in this fixture, with Marcus Rashford scoring the crucial goal.