Manchester United - Manchester City ai prediction 17.01.2026 Premier League

Preview of the Manchester United vs Manchester City Clash

On Saturday, January 17th, 2026, Old Trafford will be the battleground for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season: Manchester United vs Manchester City. As matchday 22 of the league unfurls, both teams find themselves in positions of intrigue and ambition. Manchester United, sitting in 7th place with 32 points, will be eager to climb up the table, while their city rivals Manchester City, currently 2nd with 43 points, are in hot pursuit of the top spot.

The Red Devils, under the guidance of Darren Fletcher, have had a mixed season with 8 wins, 8 draws, and 5 losses, scoring 36 goals and conceding 32. Their home record is decent, boasting 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses, showcasing their ability to capitalize on home advantage. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has been a force to reckon with, registering 13 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses with a formidable goal difference, having scored 45 and conceded only 19. Their away form is also commendable, with 5 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses.

In their last direct meeting, City emerged victorious with a commanding 3-0 win at home. The head-to-head record in the last five encounters shows a balanced rivalry, with both teams securing two wins and one match ending in a draw. However, Manchester City's recent performance, including an impressive 10-1 victory against Exeter City, suggests they might hold the upper hand in this fixture.

Our Betting Tip for Manchester United vs Manchester City

Our betting tip for this enthralling encounter predicts Manchester City to secure an away win. The Citizens' current form and their strong away record make them favorites to take all three points. Despite the Red Devils' respectable home performances, City's offensive prowess and defensive solidity could prove too much for United to handle.

Additionally, given both teams' attacking capabilities, we anticipate both teams to score. Manchester United has shown they can find the net at home, while City's attacking lineup is always a threat. Therefore, our second tip is that both teams will indeed find the back of the net in this high-stakes derby.

Our tips

Total Goals

Under 2.5

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 2 of Manchester United's last 4 matches.

There have been under 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Manchester City's last 6 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Total Goals

Under 3.5

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 3 of Manchester United's last 4 matches.

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 5 of Manchester City's last 6 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

1X2

Draw

Manchester United have drawn 3 of their last 4 matches.

Manchester City have drawn 3 of their last 6 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

AI Prediction for the Manchester Derby

Based on statistics and current form, our AI prediction leans towards a Manchester City victory. With City’s recent commanding performances and stronger league position, they are expected to edge past their neighbors. The AI forecasts a possible scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Manchester City, reflecting their superior goal-scoring ability and defensive resilience.

Manchester United Performance Check

Under the leadership of Darren Fletcher, Manchester United has shown glimpses of potential, but inconsistency has hindered their progress. With 32 points, they find themselves in 7th position, aiming to break into the top six. Their recent form, with just one win in the last five matches, highlights a need for improved performances if they are to overcome their city rivals.

How is the Current Performance of Manchester City?

Pep Guardiola's Manchester City has been formidable this season, with a strong claim for the Premier League title. Their second-place standing with 43 points is a testament to their consistency and tactical prowess. Unbeaten in their last five matches, City has shown resilience and adaptability, essential traits for a team chasing glory.

Last Direct Match

The last encounter between these two giants saw Manchester City secure a decisive 3-0 victory at home. This result will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they aim to replicate that success at Old Trafford.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

The last five meetings between these teams have been evenly contested, with both Manchester United and Manchester City claiming two victories each, alongside one draw. This history of closely-fought encounters adds an extra layer of anticipation to the upcoming match.

Performance in the Last 5 Matches

Manchester United's recent form has been a mix, with 1 win, 3 draws, and 1 defeat in their last five outings, indicating a need for improvement. On the other hand, Manchester City has been consistent, with 2 wins and 3 draws, maintaining an unbeaten run that they will aim to extend.

Performance

Manchester United

Last games

Manchester United performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

20%

Over 2.5

40%

Manchester City

Last games

Manchester City performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

80%

Over 2.5

60%

Last Match Results for Manchester United and Manchester City

Manchester United's last match ended in a disappointing 1-2 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, highlighting areas requiring attention. Meanwhile, Manchester City showcased their attacking prowess with an astounding 10-1 home victory against Exeter City, underlining their offensive capabilities.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip for the Match

The best odds for this fixture favor Manchester City, with Betika offering odds of 1.99 for a City win. For a draw, Premier Bet provides odds of 4.10, while a United victory is priced at 3.81 with Betwinner. Our betting tip aligns with these odds, recommending a City victory. Additionally, the likelihood of both teams scoring is high, with Gbets offering odds of 1.50 for this outcome. For those seeking the most favorable opportunities, find the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison.

Conclusion on the Manchester Derby

In conclusion, Manchester City enters this derby as the favored side, with their superior form, position, and recent head-to-head success against United. While derbies are notoriously unpredictable, City's consistency and attacking power put them in a strong position to claim victory. However, given the nature of this fierce rivalry, Manchester United will not yield easily and will be determined to make a statement at home.

As we set our sights on future fixtures, here are the best betting tips for tomorrow, ensuring you're well-prepared for the next set of thrilling matches. If you're seeking a new and reliable bookmaker, consider registering with Paripesa and enjoy a welcome bonus as your first gift.