Reason behind unusual kick-off time between Man United and Man City revealed

The reason behind the unusual kick-off time for Manchester United’s derby against Manchester City has been revealed.

United and City are set to go head-to-head in October for the first Manchester derby of the 23/24 campaign.

Last season, United won 2-1 at Old Trafford after Marcus Rashford netted the winner.

At the Etihad, City thrashed United 6-3 when both Erling Haaland and Phil Foden scored a hat-trick each.

Ahead of their first meeting in the Premier League this season, the kick-off time has been confirmed for 3:30pm on Sunday 29 October.

Explaining the reasoning behind the unusual kick-off time, United wrote on their official website: “The derby with Manchester City will be staged towards the end of the month, with the Old Trafford encounter being moved to 29 October, kicking off at 15:30 GMT. 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 following consultation between the clubs, the broadcaster and local authorities.”

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Apart from the clash against City, United have also confirmed that their home match against Brentford will kick-off at 3pm on Saturday 7 October.

Whilst the kick-off time for United’s away trip to newly promoted Sheffield United will be confirmed in due course.

United said: “After an international break, there is some confirmation required for our away clash at newly promoted Sheffield United. The visit to Bramall Lane is now due to be played on Sunday 22 October, at 14:00 BST.

“However, it will revert to the previous day, at 20:00 BST, should Erik ten Hag's side be scheduled to play in the Champions League on the following Tuesday.”

United will be in Premier League action this Saturday as they take on Tottenham Hotspur.